England’s rising star Will Jacks is riding a wave of confidence thanks in part to the mentorship of Indian batting legend Virat Kohli. Jacks, fresh off a crucial knock in the T20 series against Pakistan, believes Kohli’s influence can propel him and England to T20 World Cup glory.
The 25-year-old impressed with his power hitting against Pakistan, building on a spectacular IPL season where he shared the crease with Kohli at Royal Challengers Bangalore. Jacks highlighted the pressure-cooker environment of the IPL, mirroring the intensity of international cricket.
“Playing alongside someone like Kohli is a dream come true,” Jacks said. “His dedication, both on and off the field, is a huge inspiration. He doesn’t take a single practice session lightly, and that rubs off on you.”
Jacks particularly values the guidance he received from Kohli during a high-pressure chase in the IPL. “Virat was coaching me through the innings,” he explained. “He shared valuable insights on pacing the chase, which was a huge learning experience.”
Inconsistent Record but Jacks is Confident to Make an Impact
Despite his recent success, Jacks acknowledges his international T20 record has been inconsistent. He’s looking to solidify his role in the batting order, having shuffled between opening and number three. The experience at number three in the IPL, however, has boosted his confidence.
“I’ve learned a lot batting at number three,” Jacks said. “While my overall numbers might not be outstanding, I’ve shown glimpses of my potential. It’s about converting those starts into match-winning scores.”
Jacks recognizes the importance of adapting to the situation and playing for the team. “Sometimes, it might be about taking a backseat, rotating the strike, and letting the situation unfold before launching into my aggressive batting style,” he concluded.
With the World Cup approaching, Jacks seems poised to make a mark, fueled by his IPL experience and the invaluable lessons learned from Virat Kohli. His hunger for consistency and adaptability could be key ingredients in England’s quest for T20 World Cup glory.
