Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) player AB de Villiers has thrown his support behind England’s Will Jacks, endorsing him to play a pivotal role for the team in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. De Villiers praised Jacks as a well-rounded player capable of winning matches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The English batter has been making waves in the ongoing SA20 league, representing Pretoria Capitals (PC). Jacks showcased his prowess by smashing a formidable century against Durban Super Giants (DSG), making a strong statement with his outstanding performance.
In a stellar innings, Jacks scored 101 runs off 42 deliveries, contributing significantly to his team’s 17-run victory. The right-hander has been in exceptional form throughout the SA20 tournament, amassing 164 runs at an impressive strike rate of 205 in just three games.
Jacks is set to be part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the upcoming IPL season. Despite not playing last year, his outstanding form makes it challenging for the team to consider leaving him out. Jacks has garnered praise for his adept stroke play and powerful hitting, playing a crucial role in Pretoria Capitals’ successful run in the tournament thus far.
AB de Villiers remarked that having a talent like Jacks on the sidelines for Royal Challengers Bangalore is quite baffling. He conveyed the anticipation of fans eager to witness the batter in action. In a video shared on his YouTube channel, he elaborated, saying:
“He (Jacks) hasn’t featured in any match for RCB, which is surprising given his considerable talent. It appears that the people of Bengaluru and RCB fans are eagerly awaiting his performance for the team. The question of whether Jacks will get the opportunity to play for RCB looms large.”
AB de Villiers expresses his desire for RCB to create a position for Will Jacks – IPL
AB de Villiers emphasized Will Jacks’ significant scoring prowess, stating that keeping him on the sidelines would pose a major challenge for selectors.
He also expressed his wish for RCB to secure a spot for Jacks, emphasizing that the English batter is a versatile player capable of clinching victories for the team in any situation.
“We’re aware of his ability to post substantial runs, creating a dilemma for the selectors. I trust that RCB will find a place for him. He embodies a comprehensive skill set and has the potential to secure victories, whether at Chinnaswamy or any other venue with RCB.”
Will Jacks boasts an impressive record in T20 Internationals, having participated in 11 matches for England and scoring a noteworthy 181 runs at a striking rate of approximately 150. Royal Challengers Bangalore will be eager to capitalize on his current form and skill, aiming to include him in the playing XI.
In a league featuring formidable players like Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Reece Topley, and others, securing a spot for Will Jacks poses a formidable challenge for the team. However, the decision not to play him could prove counterproductive, given his exceptional form in T20 cricket. The Indian Premier League 2024 is slated to commence on March 22.
