England’s 21-year-old superstar Jacob Bethell recently surprised everyone by playing a stormy innings of 82 runs off 53 balls in the ODI against West Indies.
His innings included 8 fours and 5 sixes, which gave England a smashing victory of 238 runs.
But Bethell’s heart was stolen by Virat Kohli. Taking the field with Kohli for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2025 was no less than an adventure for him.
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‘Current’ like experience with Kohli
Bethell played only two matches in the IPL, but opening with Kohli was a life-changing moment for him. Playing an innings of 55 runs off 33 balls against Chennai Super Kings, he shared a 97-run partnership with Kohli in 59 balls.
Speaking to BBC Test Match Special, Bethell said,
“Batting with Virat was electrifying. His energy and passion hit me like a current. I want to bring his intensity into my game.”
Bethell also said, “I asked Kohli for advice many times, and he was always ready to help me. His words proved to be a game-changer for me.”
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Kohli’s advice and England’s victory
Speaking to Sky Sports, Bethell said, “Virat taught me the tricks of batting. I asked him how he stays calm even under so much pressure, and his answer changed my way of thinking. The atmosphere of the IPL and Kohli’s mentorship made me a better player.”
Bethel’s 82-run innings against the West Indies at Edgbaston helped England score 400/8. West Indies collapsed for 162 in just 27 overs, and Bethell was named Player of the Match.
RCB bought Bethell for Rs 2.6 crore in the mega auction, and he is justifying the price very well. Even though he returned to England for the playoffs, the moments spent with Kohli are priceless for him.
Bethell said, “Playing with a legend like Kohli in the IPL was like a dream for me. His advice is giving a new direction to my career!”
