Harry Brook Banned from IPL for Two Seasons After Last-Minute Withdrawal

Harry Brook will not be part of the Indian Premier League for the next two seasons after withdrawing from IPL 2025 at the last moment. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has enforced its policy on last-minute withdrawals, officially barring the England batter from participating in both IPL 2025 and IPL 2026. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Brook himself have been informed of the decision.

Delhi Capitals Left Without Brook Again

Delhi Capitals had secured Brook for INR 6.25 crore during the IPL 2025 auction, expecting him to be a key part of their squad. However, his decision to opt out has left the franchise scrambling for a replacement. This marks the second consecutive season he has pulled out, having previously withdrawn from IPL 2024 due to personal reasons.

Why Brook IS Banned

BCCI introduced a rule to prevent last-minute withdrawals by foreign players, ensuring franchises do not face unexpected setbacks. Any player who registers for the auction and later withdraws before the start of the season is automatically banned from the tournament and future player auctions for two years.

A BCCI official, speaking to The Indian Express, confirmed, “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 the IPL auction last year. It’s a policy set by the board and each player has to oblige to it.”

Brook’s Statement on Skipping IPL 2025

Brook cited international commitments as the reason for his decision. He shared his thoughts on social media, acknowledging the difficulty of pulling out of the tournament and apologizing to Delhi Capitals and their fans.

“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.

He further added, “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.”