Jacob Bethell made his first appearance of the 2026 Indian Premier League season for Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Friday, but was dismissed for 14. His involvement in the tournament had been questioned earlier in the week, with former England captain Sir Alastair Cook suggesting he should return to Warwickshire to play county cricket instead of remaining in the IPL. However, ex-England batter Kevin Pietersen disagreed, urging Bethell to stay in India and continue learning.
Bethell got his first opportunity as an 'impact player' in the game against Gujarat Titans, but his 10-ball stay at the crease was ended when he hit a Mohammed Siraj delivery straight to the fielder at point. Despite the early blow, Royal Challengers Bengaluru went on to win the game, thanks in part to a commanding 81 off 44 balls from Virat Kohli. Earlier, Gujarat opener Sudharsan had struck a sublime century - 100 off 58 balls - but his effort ultimately proved in vain.
England's Jos Buttler scored 25 off 16, batting at No 3 for Gujarat. Bethell, who is earning around £250,000 from RCB, defended his decision to remain in the IPL, saying he believed it was the right thing for him to be doing at the moment. He felt that being around the guys in the IPL and the standard of cricket in India was helping him improve, and that the tournament had a unique feel that brought out the best in players.