India, April 24 -- Royal Challengers Bengaluru handing a chance to Jacob Bethell in the IPL 2026 clash against the Gujarat Titans on Friday (April 24) has sparked major buzz. With Phil Salt ruled out due to injury, as confirmed by RCB captain Rajat Patidar, fans are questioning whether the move is also aimed at keeping Bethell in India instead of returning to England for county cricket - a suggestion earlier raised by former England captain Alastair Cook.

What did Sir Alastair Cook say about Jacob Bethell's stint with the RCB?

Speaking in the recent Stick to Cricket podcast, Cook suggested that Bethell should return to play county cricket for Warwickshire, given RCB's settled batting unit hasn't allowed the youngster to feature in the e...