Star English Batter Reportedly Banned From IPL

BCCI and the IPL’s new rule on late withdrawals has claimed its first major victim—England’s Harry Brook. According to reports, Harry Brook has been handed a two-year ban from the IPL after pulling out of this year’s tournament at the last minute. An official notice was sent to both Brook and the ECB, clarifying that he won’t be eligible for the IPL auction until the 2028 season.

This penalty stems from a rule that all players agreed to before registering for the auction.

Harry Brook, who was set to represent the Delhi Capitals in this year’s IPL, withdrew from the competition just days before it kicked off. This marks the second consecutive year he has opted out; last season, he stepped back to prioritize family time following his grandmother’s passing.

The new regulation was introduced by the IPL to discourage late withdrawals by overseas players. Franchises were informed ahead of the auction that any player who becomes unavailable after being picked would face a two-season ban from both participation and auction entry—unless the absence is related to injury.

Brook’s decision comes amid a broader trend of fewer England players committing to the league in recent years. In a social media statement, Brook expressed regret over missing the IPL while emphasizing that he’s putting international cricket first. There’s mounting speculation that the batter could soon be handed England’s white-ball captaincy, with his decision seen as a strategic pause before embarking on the next chapter of his career.

The upcoming IPL season is set to begin on March 22, with reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders taking on RCB at Eden Gardens.