England batsman Harry Brook has been banned from the Indian Premier League for two years after missing out on the cash-rich league at the last moment, according to a report in The Indian Express. BCCI has reportedly informed both the England Cricket Board (ECB) and Brook of its decision.
“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 IPL auction last year. It’s a policy set by the board and each player has to oblige to it,” a BCCI official told The Indian Express.
“Any player who registers in the auction and after getting picked, makes himself unavailable before the start of the season, will get banned from participating in the tournament and player auction for 2 seasons.” the national daily quoted the new rule as reading.
Who picked Harry Brook in IPL auction?
Harry Brook was selected by Delhi Capitals during the IPL 2025 auctions at a price of ₹6.25 crore. However, just before the start of the upcoming IPL season on March 22, the young batsman had announced that he was pulling out of the tournament due to his commitments to England.
In a statement announcing his decision, Brook apologized to the Delhi Capitals for his decision but stated that playing for his country remains his priority and focus.
“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.” Brooks said in a statement.
Notably, Brooks had earlier pulled out of the IPL 2024 season due to the death of his grandmother. BCCI had been urged by many stakeholders to take some action as foreign players pulled out of the first big season and came back during the Mini Auctions which earned them a high pay cheque.
Talking specifically about Brook, the right hander had served as Jos Buttler’s deputy during the Champions Trophy and is now being looked as a possible candidate to take over as the English captain which could be a possible reason for his withdrawal.
