Ahmedabad: In a stunning display of power-hitting and strategic guidance, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) achieved the fastest successful chase of a 200-plus target in Indian Premier League (IPL) history, courtesy of an extraordinary century by Will Jacks.
The Englishman's blistering knock, supported by Virat Kohli's mentorship, propelled RCB to victory against their opponents.
Facing a challenging task at the crease, Jacks initially struggled to find his rhythm but found solace in the advice of his senior partner, Virat Kohli.
Kohli's insights on tackling spin bowling, particularly against the formidable Rashid Khan, proved instrumental in Jacks' resurgence. Speaking after the match,
Jacks credited Kohli for his guidance during the early phase of his innings, which ultimately paved the way for his record-breaking performance.
"Virat kind of helped me through my first 15 balls where I was struggling," Jacks revealed. "He was giving me tips on playing spin. He said he was reading Rashid well and could take him down, which helped me."
Jacks' innings, characterized by eight boundaries in his last ten balls, culminated in a remarkable 41-ball century, delighting his partner Kohli, who also contributed a formidable 70 off 44 deliveries. Reflecting on their partnership, Kohli expressed admiration for Jacks' explosive batting display, jokingly remarking on their on-field chemistry.
The sensational victory not only marked a significant milestone for RCB but also ignited a sense of momentum within the team. Jacks emphasized the importance of building on this success, stating, "We have still got a chance. We have shown what we can do. You just sneak into fourth place there in great form and then you never know."
Teammates, including Glenn Maxwell, were effusive in their praise for Jacks' performance, describing it as the happiest they had been in a long time. Head coach Andy Flower, celebrating his birthday, expressed gratitude for the memorable victory, highlighting the collective effort and individual brilliance displayed by Jacks and Kohli.
The match-winning partnership not only secured a crucial victory for RCB but also showcased the significance of mentorship and teamwork in achieving remarkable feats on the cricket field. As the IPL season progresses, the camaraderie and synergy within the RCB camp will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in their pursuit of further success.