Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star English all-rounder Jacks Will was a game-changer for the franchise during the 2024 IPL season, establishing himself as the franchise’s new big-hitter within weeks. Picked up by RCB for INR 3.20 crore before the 2024 season, Jacks provided a series of high-octane performances that not only charged the team but also were the driving force behind the resurgence of the franchise’s campaign.
The 2024 Breakout
Jacks played in eight games for RCB, scoring 230 runs at an exponential strike rate of 175.57. His highlight was a match-winning hundred against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, when he scored three figures off 40 balls-a knock universally hailed as one of the most destructive innings of the season. He also scored a vital half-century and with the ball took two wickets, establishing himself as a true all-rounder.
Jacks’ performances were a major factor in the turnaround of RCB in the second half of the season. Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif felt that Jacks “saved their honor” and was one of the factors that helped RCB qualify for the playoffs, winning consecutive games and finishing in the top four.
RCB’s Auction Blunder
Even after his heroics, RCB went on to make the unpopular move of not keeping Jacks in their roster for IPL 2025. In the auction, MI and Punjab Kings fought it out for his services, and MI won him for ₹5.25 crore.
Jacks’ Legacy at RCB
Although his tenure at RCB was short, Will Jacks made a lasting contribution as the side’s new big hitter. He could clear boundaries at will, crank up the run rate, and contribute with the bat as well
Will Jacks became RCB’s new big hitting force in IPL 2024, contributing significantly to their playoff campaign with explosive hitting and useful off-spin. Leaving him in the 2025 auction is generally seen as a strategic error on RCB’s part, but his reputation as a game-changer for the franchise remains intact.
