England batter Will Jacks shared his thoughts on being likened to the next AB de Villiers of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) following his impressive century against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad in the IPL 2024 game.
Despite feeling apprehensive about the weighty expectation placed upon him, Jacks embraced the challenge.
Speaking on the RCB Insider Show, Jacks was questioned about the prospect of stepping into De Villiers' shoes for RCB.
He praised De Villiers for his significant contributions to the franchise and acknowledged that it might be daunting to fill his role. But, he expressed his determination to give his all for the supporters.
"It is a bit daunting, it is a bit scary (becoming the next AB de Villiers for RCB). AB de Villiers is an RCB legend, He is a world legend. It is a lot of weight, but I will just have to do what I can," Jacks said.
The 25-year-old played a dazzling innings while pursuing 201 runs against the Titans. Initially, he appeared unsettled facing spin and managed only 16 runs from 16 balls.
However, he then unleashed a barrage of strokes, accumulating 83 runs in the final 24 balls to reach his IPL century in just 41 balls.
Jacks had stepped in for Glenn Maxwell, who took a brief hiatus during IPL 2024. He discussed his substitution for Maxwell, humorously implying that he contemplated ousting him while playing golf.
"I was happy to get rid of him (the all-rounder took a break after run of poor form), now that he is back I am under pressure. I was driving the buggy. Thought of kicking him out (on if he tried to injure Maxwell while playing golf)," Jacks said.
Jack's inclusion in the team bolstered their batting lineup. The all-rounder has amassed 176 runs at an average of 44 and an impressive strike rate of 191.30, including a century and a half-century in 9 matches.
RCB will play Titans in a crucial showdown on May 4 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.