Will Jacks has had a remarkable winter. From making his Ashes debut in Australia to getting engaged in Sydney, he is now starring for England in the T20 World Cup.
His captain, Harry Brook, described him as a “Jack of all trades” after Jacks delivered once again with bat and ball. The pair go back to their teenage years at the Bunbury Festival and later as Under-19 teammates. Now, Jacks is helping Brook navigate his first World Cup as captain.
Jacks has already earned three man-of-the-match awards in this tournament. Against Nepal, he scored 39 not out, helping England avoid a shock defeat. His first T20 fifty, 53 not out against Italy, put the game out of reach. Against Sri Lanka, he contributed 21 runs and took three wickets on Brook’s birthday.
On Sunday, Jacks opened the bowling for England for the first time since the last T20 World Cup. He delivered an accurate first over, conceding just four runs, and then took crucial wickets, including Kusal Mendis and Pavan Rathnayake. His control and precision were key, with 91% of his deliveries on target.
Off the field, Jacks’ Ashes tour had its ups and downs, but his performance in the T20 World Cup shows his potential as England’s reliable all-rounder. His ability to contribute in multiple areas makes him a vital player as England edge closer to the semi-finals.
