Harry Brook pulls out of IPL 2025, could face two-year ban from league-OxBig News Network

England batting star Harry Brook pulled out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, saying he needs to take time out to prepare for the ‘busiest period of his career’ at the international level. This is the second successive year Brook has withdrawn from the IPL after he opted out of the competition in 2024 due to personal issues.

Harry Brook could face a two-year ban from IPL if the organisers decide to play by the rules. The IPL announced before the mega auction for the 2025 season that a player pulling out after getting picked in the auction is in danger of facing a two-year ban.| IPL 2025: Full Schedule |

Brook, who is the frontrunner to replace Jos Buttler as white-ball captain of England, was bought by Delhi Capitals for Rs 6.25 crore in the mega auction.

“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 rules read.

Harry Brook, 26, apologised unreservedly to the Delhi Capitals and their fans for his last-minute decision. IPL 2025 gets underway on March 22. Brook played IPL 2023 for SunRisers Hyderabad, but struggled to live up to the hefty price tag of Rs 13.25 crore, scoring just 190 runs in 11 matches.

BROOK WITHDRAWS FROM IPL 2025: FULL STATEMENT

“I have made the very difficult decision to pull out of the upcoming IPL. I apologise unreservedly to the Delhi Capitals and their supporters,” Brook said in a statement on Instagram on March 9.

“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 said.

Brook featured in the Champions Trophy, scoring just 47 runs in three matches in England’s horror campaign. Under Jos Buttler, England lost all their games in Group A to crash out in the group stages.

Jos Buttler quit as England’s ODI captain after England were eliminated from the semi-final race. Brook is likely to be appointed as the next white-ball captain of the senior men’s team.