RCB’s Young Star Exposed in India – Is He a Mega Auction Blunder?

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), still searching for their maiden IPL title, made some interesting signings during the IPL 2025 mega auction. One of their notable picks was young English batter Jacob Bethell.

There was a lot of excitement around Bethell, especially after his selection in England’s T20I squad for the five-match series against India. However, his performance in the series has raised concerns ahead of IPL 2025.

Disappointing Start for Jacob Bethell in India

Jacob Bethell played three matches in the series but failed to make an impact. He scored just 23 runs at a strike rate of 76, struggling to handle the pressure in crucial moments. With England under pressure in all three games he played, Bethell had a chance to showcase his talent but fell short.

Based on whatever I've seen of Jacob Bethell in this series, He is still a work in progress as of now like RCB management said.

Unless Livingstone is performing very badly. I doubt if He will even get a game in this IPL season.

— Aditya Saha (@Adityakrsaha) February 2, 2025

RCB might have targeted him to strengthen their middle order with an aggressive batter, but his struggles against spin in Indian conditions could be a major challenge in the IPL. His inability to handle quality spin attacks raises questions about how he will perform in the tournament.

Bethell’s Past Performance and RCB’s Expectations

Jacob Bethell is a left-handed batter and left-arm spinner. RCB likely saw him as a potential middle-over enforcer, especially with Glenn Maxwell no longer part of the team. His numbers in the middle overs last year were promising—Bethell averaged 40.25 and struck at a rate of 140.40 in that phase.

However, his recent form is worrying. In the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25, he played for Melbourne Renegades but managed just 195 runs in eight innings at a strike rate of 125, with only one fifty.

RCB’s Selection Headache

With his struggles in both the England series and the BBL, RCB might have a tough decision to make. If Bethell continues to underperform, they could be forced to look at other options in their squad.

For now, RCB fans will hope that the young English batter can adapt quickly and find form before IPL 2025 begins.