Why is Will Jacks Not Playing in Today’s RCB vs CSK IPL 2024 Clash?

In what might prove to be a major setback for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), they’ll miss their star overseas batter Will Jacks for the do-or-die clash against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday.

Jacks, along with his compatriot Reece Topley, left the RCB squad after their win over the Delhi Capitals last week to join the England group for their 2024 T20 World Cup preparations. England is set to play a four-match T20I series against Pakistan starting May 22 ahead of the marquee tournament in June.

In a recent RCB video, Jacks reflected on his time with the team, expressing gratitude and fond memories. “It’s been amazing,” Jacks said. “The fans have made it amazing… I have really loved it. The city, Bangalore, is really cool. It’s been a great experience. Greeny (Cameron Green), Lockie (Ferguson), Maxy (Glenn Maxwell) – I have learned a lot from all the big players, all the local players, and everyone has been great with training. I think we have created a really great environment and that has helped us get on as well.”

Jacks played a crucial role in RCB’s remarkable turnaround this season, transforming their record from one win in the first eight games to five wins in the next five. In his debut season, he scored 230 runs in eight innings, including a brilliant century against the Gujarat Titans with an impressive strike rate of 175.57 from the number three position, which he rarely played for England.

Who has Replaced Will Jacks in RCB’s Playing XI?

As expected, Glenn Maxwell has stepped into RCB’s playing XI. The Australian all-rounder had a challenging start to the season and even took a break for his mental well-being. However, both RCB and CSK know Maxwell remains a game-changer in this format, especially on a ground like Chinnaswamy.

RCB’s playing XI for today: Faf du Plessis (c), Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Rajat Patidar, Cameron Green, Mahipal Lomror, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Karn Sharma, Yash Dayal, Lockie Ferguson, and Mohammed Siraj.

The absence of Jacks could significantly impact RCB’s performance, but Maxwell’s return adds a dynamic element to the team as they aim for a crucial victory against CSK.