Cook insists England duty must come before IPL amid Bethell injury concern

Former England captain Alastair Cook has renewed debate over young cricketer Jacob Bethell's participation in the IPL, arguing that representing England should always take priority over franchise cricket. The discussion resurfaced after Bethell sustained a knee injury that ruled him out of The Hundred and raised doubts about his availability for England's upcoming Test series against Pakistan. Cook questioned the benefit of Bethell remaining at Royal Challengers Bengaluru when he was not getting significant playing time. Bethell had previously defended his choice to stay with RCB despite limited opportunities on the field.