Star England batter Harry Brook has been banned from participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the next two seasons after he withdrew from IPL 2025 at the last moment. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially communicated its decision to both the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Brook himself. The decision was made as per BCCI’s policy for preventing last-minute pullouts by foreign players.
Brook, who was signed by Delhi Capitals for INR 6.25 crore in the IPL 2025 auction, decided to skip the season, citing the need to focus on international cricket. This is the second consecutive year that the right-hander has withdrawn from the tournament, having pulled out of IPL 2024 due to the passing of his grandmother. The BCCI has faced pressure from franchises and stakeholders to impose stricter regulations against players who register for the auction but later withdraw.
As per the new rule introduced by the IPL, any player who enters the auction and subsequently opts out before the start of the season will be banned from participating in the tournament and future player auctions for two years.
“An official communication has been sent to ECB and Brook about BCCI banning him for two years as per its policy which was informed to each player before they registered their name for IPL auction last year. It’s a policy set by the board and each player has to oblige to it,” a BCCI official said as quoted by The Indian Express.
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The policy was made to ensure commitment from players and protect the interests of franchises who invest heavily in overseas cricketers. Over the years, several international players have opted out of the league after securing lucrative contracts, causing problems for teams. The 26-year-old had announced his decision through a social media post.
“I have made the very difficult decision to pull out of the upcoming IPL. 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," Brook wrote.
"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,” he added.
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