England's Harry Brook withdraws from IPL 2025, faces potential ban
What's the story
England's cricket sensation Harry Brook has pulled out of his Indian Premier League contract with Delhi Capitals for the second consecutive year. The decision was conveyed to the BCCI by the England Cricket Board officials last week and was subsequently relayed to Delhi Capitals. The franchise had bought Brook for ₹6.25 crore (£590,000) at the IPL mega auction held last November. Here are further details.
Personal reasons
Brook cites need for personal time
Taking to social media, Brook announced his withdrawal, saying he needs "time to recharge after the busiest period in my career to date." As a player across all formats with 18 months left on his ECB central contract, workload management could have played a part in this decision. Moreover, he is also expected to become England's next captain in white-ball cricket. The ECB has been contacted for comment.
Potential consequences
IPL's new rule could lead to Brook's 2-year ban
Meanwhile, Brook's withdrawal from the IPL could lead to a two-year ban, according to a new rule introduced ahead of the 2025 auction. The regulation was introduced after all 10 franchises expressed frustration at a history of late pullouts by overseas players. The only exception to the rule is an injury or medical condition confirmed by the player's home board.
Past withdrawals
Brook's history of withdrawals from IPL
Notably, this is the second consecutive year that Brook has pulled out just ahead of the IPL season start, both times from Delhi Capitals. Last March, he pulled out of the 2024 IPL to be with his family after the death of his grandmother. This bereavement also caused him to miss England's Test tour of India in January-February.
Career update
Brook's IPL performance and future prospects
Meanwhile, the 2025 IPL will kick off on March 22 with Delhi Capitals's first match against Lucknow Super Giants in Visakhapatnam on March 24. Apart from finding Brook's replacement, the franchise is yet to announce their captain for the season. Brook has played one IPL season to date, in 2023, where he had a difficult stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad.