Jacob Bethell has defended his decision to remain at the Indian Premier League despite criticism from former England captain Sir Alastair Cook, who called for the young batter to consider returning to county cricket with Warwickshire rather than "sitting on his a*** not doing anything." Bethell hasn't played a competitive innings since his match-winning century at Sydney in January and a stunning 105 in the T20 World Cup semi-final against India, having failed to earn a spot in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru side through six matches.

Cook believes the 22-year-old's lack of cricket could harm his England prospects, particularly after Ben Duckett recently quit the IPL to play for Nottinghamshire and secure his Test place. However, Bethell, who earns around £250,000 from his IPL deal, insists the experience of training alongside international stars in India is benefiting his development. "I feel better now than I was a month ago after the World Cup," he said, adding that the pressure of net sessions in India provides invaluable exposure even without match play.

Despite calls for him to open the batting for England, Bethell stated he would "love to stay at three" and cement that position. Cook has previously hailed him as "the future of England cricket" following his Sydney heroics, but the former captain warned Bethell risks being overlooked if he continues warming the bench rather than playing regular county cricket.