RCB newbie Jacob Bethell, who debuted in the first Test against New Zealand at the Hagley Oval, Christchurch, has smashed a 37-ball half century, becoming the test batter to hit the second fastest fifty, along with Tim Southee, on debut. Batting at Number 3, he smashed eight fours—including four in five balls off fellow debutant Nathan Smith—before pulling for six in what would turn out to be the game’s final over. New Zealand's Tim Southe too achieved the same feat on his debut, who too was smashed by Bethell. With the half century, Bethell has answered all confusions regarding his inclusion in the team. Star Boy Jacob Bethell’s 37 balls 50* highlights. - 2nd fastest fifty on Test Debut in the History. 🤯pic.twitter.com/H5AxWC07EA — Fearless🦁 (@ViratTheLegend) December 1, 2024 Jacob Bethell in RCB Earlier, Bethell was the youngest Englishman to have a T20I fifty at the age of 21 years and 17 days against the West Indies in Barbados. All this definitely has added some hope for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who have acquired him for the 2025 Indian Premier League. RCB has bought the young cricketer for 2.6 crores after winning a bidding war against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings. Bethell's pinch-hitting abilities and bowling skills will hopefully aid RCB for the 2025 season. Read Also: Ben Stokes Fit for 2nd Test After Injury Scare in NZ Who is Jacob Bethell? Born in Barbados and now playing for England, Bethell has an impressive run in limited-overs cricket, smacking two half-centuries in the T20I series against the West Indies. He owns 173 runs in T20Is at an average of 57.66 and a strike rate of 167.96. His domestic T20 stats shone with a massive 909 runs at a strike rate of 142.47 across 52 matches. However, the longest format remains challenging, as he averages 25.44 in first-class cricket and has yet to score a century in any format. Bethell came in the England squad as a replacement for Jordan Cox and has rightly justified his position.