Harry Brook has withdrawn from the IPL 2025, marking the second consecutive year he has pulled out of the tournament. His late decision, conveyed to the BCCI and Delhi Capitals, could now trigger a two-year ban under new IPL rules. The move has sparked speculation about his future, especially as he emerges as a frontrunner for England’s white-ball captaincy.
Brook, bought for INR 6.25 crore (£590,000) by Delhi Capitals in last year’s auction, stated he needed time to recover from a packed international schedule. He emphasized that playing for England remains his top priority, even if his decision is met with criticism.
Brook’s Statement: “I Need Time to Recharge”
Brook addressed his withdrawal through a social media post, apologizing to the Delhi Capitals franchise and its fans.
“I have made the very difficult decision to pull out of the upcoming IPL,” Brook wrote. “I apologize unreservedly to the Delhi Capitals and their supporters. With the guidance of people I trust, I have taken time to seriously consider this. It is a really important time for England cricket, and I want to fully commit to preparing for the upcoming series. To do this, I need time to recharge after the busiest period of my career.”
He acknowledged that not everyone would understand his decision but maintained that playing for England remained his primary focus.
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Two-Year Ban Looms Under IPL’s New Rules
Brook’s withdrawal leaves him vulnerable to a two-year IPL ban, as per a rule introduced ahead of the 2025 auction. The rule, enforced after repeated last-minute pullouts by overseas players, states that any non-injury withdrawal after being picked in the auction would lead to a ban from the next two IPL seasons.
The only exception is if the player provides medical proof of injury, confirmed by their home board. Since Brook’s exit is based on workload management, he could face a ban until 2027.
Second Withdrawal in Two Years
This is Brook’s second consecutive withdrawal from the IPL. Last year, he pulled out of IPL 2024, also with Delhi Capitals, citing personal reasons after the death of his grandmother. Before that, he had withdrawn from England’s Test tour of India in February 2024.
Brook has played only one IPL season, with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2023. His campaign was largely disappointing, scoring 190 runs in 11 matches, though he did manage an impressive 100 off 55 balls* against Kolkata Knight Riders.
What’s Next for Brook and Delhi Capitals?
Brook’s withdrawal leaves Delhi Capitals scrambling for a replacement ahead of their first match against Lucknow Super Giants on March 24. The franchise also has yet to announce its captain for the season.
For Brook, this decision could have long-term implications. While it allows him to focus on England’s upcoming assignments, a two-year IPL ban could limit his opportunities in franchise cricket, impacting his T20 career. With England potentially looking for a new white-ball captain, this move signals that Brook is fully committed to international cricket.
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