The middle-order batter from England, Harry Brook, has pulled out of the Indian Premier League 2025. He says he needs to prepare for his commitments with the national team.
He was bought by Delhi Capitals in the IPL Auction 2025 for INR 6.25 crore. This will be the second time that Harry Brook has pulled out of the IPL. Now, he runs the risk of facing a ban from the competition.
The IPL franchises were frustrated by the last-minute withdrawals of numerous players, primarily English, over the past few years. Due to this, the governing body implemented a new rule before the 2025 IPL mega auction.
According to the new rule, “Any player who registers in the player auction and after getting picked at the auction, makes himself unavailable before the start of the season, will get banned from participating in the tournament and player auction for 2 Seasons.”
The only exception to this rule will be for “an injury/medical condition, which will have to be confirmed by the [player’s] home board”. However, Harry Brook put out a statement on his X profile that is not related to medical reasons.
Here is what he wrote on why he is withdrawing from the IPL 2025.
“I have made the very difficult decision to pull out of the upcoming IPL. I apologize 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.”
He also pulled out of last year’s IPL. He has only featured in one IPL season so far. He played for Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2023.