Bethell Says IPL Stint Boosting All-Format Batting Development

England batter Jacob Bethell stated that participating in the Indian Premier League with Royal Challengers Bengaluru has positively influenced his all-format batting development, even though he has played only six matches in his two-year contract. Bethell, 22, returned to the playing XI in the 2026 season due to an injury to teammate Phil Salt.

Former England captain Alastair Cook suggested in April that Bethell would benefit more from playing County cricket at Warwickshire instead of remaining on the IPL sidelines. However, ex-England player Kevin Pietersen, a former IPL competitor, countered the argument, emphasizing the value of training and competing alongside top global players.

Bethell, speaking ahead of RCB’s IPL 2026 match against Mumbai Indians, stood by his choice: "This is the marquee tournament of the year, with pretty much all of the best cricketers in the world playing in it." He added that exposure to high-pressure conditions would not hinder but advance his career.

Mumbai Indians middle-order batter Sherfane Rutherford noted the challenge of adapting to the venue, which is hosting its first IPL match since 2016. He stressed the need for batters to quickly assess pitch behavior to adjust their approach early in the game.

The IPL 2026 fixture between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Mumbai Indians will proceed at the venue on May 10, 2026, with both teams evaluating conditions and player availability ahead of the toss.