Paltan, the Men in Blue and Gold now head into the hills for a high voltage clash, facing Punjab Kings in Dharamshala on 14^th May 2026. The stage is set and it is time to put our best foot forward once again, as this venue awaits a blockbuster under lights. Ahead of the clash, Will Jacks graced MI Charcha and engaged in a fun filled conversation, keeping it real and refreshing. 🗣️💙

Firstly, talking about his fearless batting and how he goes about making quick decisions during the fast-paced T20 format, Will said, “I love being part of this team and it is a great environment to come into. I have really good memories of last year and it is nice to meet new faces this year as well. When you are batting now a days, it just simplifies the game for you as you don’t have much of a choice where IPL is going. Batting has more of an aggressive stance than bowling. You just have to go with the flow of the game.”

Further, he spoke about opening the batting, playing at number three and now currently batting at the sixth position, also being an Ashes front line spinner. Seeing the game differently now as he has adapted to various roles, Jacks added, “It does give me a different perspective, an impactful innings in the centre could have us win games. I view the game in a positive way now. I just focus on what the score board says, it helps me become more adaptable.”

On being asked about his intent and clarity while batting, knowing what is needed in a particular situation, he reflected, “It has evolved quite quickly over the last 12 months. I have had to learn pretty fast on the job in the middle, as to what is really required, what the scenario is… and that helps me progress as a cricketer.”

“I have found that quite tricky this year as the scores have been so high. When the bowlers are bowling well, you still have to respect it. In the IPL, the balance needs to be found. It is a tactical thing. No two games are the same. Whatever the team requires of you, you do that. Try to look at the situation and be adaptable.

“You look at the World Cup, there have been pressure situations, there is so much riding on each game. People play differently. It was 160-180 and now it is 220-230 which is the new normal. In a tournament like this, when one is travelling so much…each venue has different characteristics. You take knowledge from the local guys who have played here in and out. Each ground has different nuances, and that can help you get ready a little faster. So much these days is all about instinct.”

Finally, Jacksy spoke about the MI environment during the IPL and how it has helped him as a player, “We have got so much experience in the MI camp, international captains, international world cup winning players from India and overseas too. Experiencing cricket around the world with different conditions is great. Sometimes when you are having a tough season as a team, you just stick together and find a way forward. Boys who I never met last year are keen and happy to chat and express their opinions. It is nice to have that happy and relaxed environment.” 💪

“With the history of Mumbai Indians and the success of this franchise, sometimes the boys are trying to live up to the expectations of the past. You have to find that balance, being really proud of the past history and continue the tradition which this franchise has achieved. Every year you need to start afresh and move forward.” 💙