Harry Brook could face two-year IPL ban after withdrawal amid England captaincy link

Harry Brook has confirmed his reasoning for pulling out of the IPL ahead of the 2025 season but the competition’s new rules could see the England star penalised

A second withdrawal from the IPL could leave Harry Brook at risk of a two-year ban from the competition.

England star Brook became an overnight millionaire when he joined the IPL in 2023 off the back of England’s T20 World Cup win. He withdrew early from the 2024 edition, though, following the death of his grandmother.

The 26-year-old had been due to represent Delhi Capitals in the 2025 edition, which gets underway at the end of March. However, he has pulled out just days before the start of the tournament, citing the need for “time to recharge”.

Brook is in contention to take over as England’s white ball captain following Jos Buttler’s resignation, but the decision could impact his IPL future. Delhi Capitals paid the equivalent of £590,000 to sign Brook at the most recent auction, but new competition rules could see him slapped with a ban.

“I have made the very difficult decision to pull out of the upcoming IPL,” Brook wrote on social media. “I apologise unreservedly to the Delhi Capitals and their supporters. I love cricket. Ever since I was a young boy, I have dreamt of playing for my country, and I am extremely thankful to have the opportunity to play the game I love at this level.

“With the guidance of people I trust, I have taken the time to seriously consider this decision. It is a really important time for England cricket, and I want to fully commit to preparing for the upcoming series.

“In order to do this, I need time to recharge after the busiest period in my career to date. I know not everyone will understand, and I don’t expect them to, but I have to do what I believe is right, and playing for my country remains my priority and focus. I remain hugely grateful for the opportunities I have been given and the support I receive.”

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The new IPL rules come off the back of complaints by franchisees about overseas players withdrawing from the tournament. Several players withdrew from the 2024 edition after being picked up at auction, including fellow England star Mark Wood – who pulled out to manage his workload.

Any player withdrawing for non-injury reasons will now trigger a two-year ban from competing in the IPL. Any injury-related withdrawal would need to be backed up by a player’s home board.

According to ESPN Cricinfo, Brook’s decision was relayed by the ECB to Indian counterpart the BCCI last week. Delhi Capitals are due to get their 2025 campaign underway against Lucknow Super Giants on March 24.