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April 13 | Jaipur: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have had a mixed run in IPL 2025 so far, but one name continues to stir curiosity — Jacob Bethell, the explosive English all-rounder signed by the franchise for ₹2.6 crore. Despite being a player with serious potential and recent international exposure, the 21-year-old is yet to make his IPL debut.
As the team navigates the mid-season crunch and seeks greater consistency, Bethell’s absence is becoming a talking point for fans and analysts alike.
Who Is Jacob Bethell?
Jacob Bethell is a Barbados-born English cricketer known for his aggressive left-handed batting and canny left-arm orthodox spin. Born on October 23, 2003, he moved to England in his early teens and quickly rose through the youth ranks.
- Age: 21
- Batting Style: Left-handed
- Bowling Style: Left-arm orthodox
- Role: Batting all-rounder
Bethell represented England U-19 and was a standout performer in the 2022 U-19 World Cup, where he scored at a brisk strike rate and chipped in with key wickets. His performances earned him a place in Warwickshire’s domestic side and eventually an England Test cap in late 2024.
Jacob Bethell’s Domestic & International Impact
Bethell made his name in county cricket with Warwickshire, where he displayed remarkable maturity and match awareness. He scored over 450 runs and picked up 15 wickets in the 2023 Vitality Blast, catching the eye of IPL scouts.
In late 2024, Bethell made his England Test debut, a rare feat for someone still considered a white-ball specialist. His ability to adapt quickly and contribute in multiple roles makes him a coveted asset for franchise cricket.
IPL 2025: Acquired by RCB for ₹2.6 Crore
At the IPL 2025 auction, RCB outbid two other franchises to secure Bethell for ₹2.6 crore, signaling their belief in his all-round abilities. He was expected to slot into the middle order and also offer a spin-bowling option, especially on slower Indian wickets.
However, five matches into RCB’s campaign, he is yet to don the red and gold jersey.
Why Hasn’t Jacob Bethell Played Yet?
RCB’s overseas combination has been a balancing act. With players like Faf du Plessis, Phil Salt, Josh Hazlewood, and Liam Livingstone forming the core of the XI, Bethell has remained benched. Yet, his flexibility could make him a valuable pick as an Impact Player or a spin all-rounder, especially with some players underperforming.
“Bethell is being groomed for the long term. We’re keeping our options open,” said an RCB coach earlier this week.
Bethell’s IPL Suitability: A Tactical Asset
- Ideal for spin-friendly pitches
- Capable of floating up and down the batting order
- Provides left-handed balance in a right-heavy lineup
RCB’s next few matches are at venues like Jaipur, Chennai, and Delhi — grounds where spin can play a pivotal role. Bethell’s inclusion could provide the edge RCB needs.
International Commitments Looming
Another subplot is Bethell’s availability. England will face Zimbabwe in a Test series starting May 22, which may force an early exit from IPL duties. This adds further urgency for RCB to consider giving him game time before national duties beckon.
Career Stats Overview
| Format | Matches | Runs | Avg | SR | Wickets | Econ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T20 Domestic | 42 | 984 | 28 | 143 | 21 | 7.4 |
| List A | 26 | 704 | 35.2 | 91 | 18 | 5.2 |
| Tests (England) | 1 | 58 | 29 | — | 2 | 3.4 |
What Fans and Experts Say
Nasser Hussain: “Jacob Bethell is a future England captain. He’s got leadership, skill, and the right attitude.”
Ian Bishop (on auction day): “A bargain buy for RCB. If they use him wisely, he could become this season’s breakout performer.”
Social media is also abuzz with hashtags like #BethellDebut, #RCBNextGen, and #JacobTheFinisher, indicating the anticipation for his inclusion.
Jacob Bethell may not have made his IPL debut yet, but his inclusion is a matter of when, not if. For a team like RCB, which is searching for consistency and game-changers, Bethell brings exactly that promise. As the second half of the tournament unfolds and the pressure mounts, this young Englishman could turn out to be the surprise weapon in RCB’s arsenal.
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