NEW DELHI, 14 March 2025 (BSS/AFP) – England batsman Harry Brook has been handed a two-year ban from the Indian Premier League (IPL) after withdrawing at the last minute to prioritise international cricket, according to local media reports on Friday.
The 26-year-old, widely regarded as a leading candidate to succeed Jos Buttler as England’s white-ball captain, had been signed by Delhi Capitals for the upcoming IPL season, which begins next week.
Brook had also opted out of his contract with the Delhi franchise last season following the passing of his grandmother.
According to an unnamed official from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has been formally notified of Brook’s suspension. The official, speaking to the Indian Express newspaper, stated that the ban aligns with an IPL policy that was clearly communicated to all players before they registered for the auction last year.
The rule aims to prevent last-minute withdrawals by overseas players, ensuring stability for teams in the high-profile T20 tournament. Exceptions to the policy are generally made only in cases of injury.
Earlier this week, Brook took to social media to apologise “unreservedly to the Delhi Capitals and their supporters” for his decision to withdraw from the league, stating that he needed time to “recharge” and focus on his international career.
Brook previously played one IPL season with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2023, where he made headlines with a 55-ball century against Kolkata Knight Riders.
The 2025 IPL season is set to commence on 22 March, with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders facing Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens.
Brook’s ban highlights the increasing complexities surrounding player commitments across franchise and international cricket. With the growing number of T20 leagues worldwide, national boards and franchise teams are grappling with scheduling conflicts and player workload management, making such policies more crucial than ever.
