In a shocking turn of events, England’s rising cricket star Harry Brook has been banned from the IPL for two seasons (2025 and 2026) after withdrawing his name from the upcoming tournament. The Delhi Capitals, who had purchased Brook for ₹6.25 crore in the IPL 2024 mega auction, will now have to search for a suitable replacement.
Brook’s decision to pull out of IPL 2025 comes as he aims to focus on England’s domestic cricket season, especially after the team’s disappointing run in the ICC Champions Trophy. However, as per IPL’s new player withdrawal rule, his absence has led to a strict two-year ban, barring him from participation in both IPL 2025 and IPL 2026.
Why Was Harry Brook Banned from IPL?
Understanding IPL’s New Withdrawal Rule
The IPL Governing Council introduced a strict rule before the IPL 2025 auction, stating that any player who withdraws after being picked in the auction will face a two-year suspension.
A BCCI official, speaking to India Today, confirmed:
“Harry Brook, who opted out of IPL 2025, will not be allowed to play in IPL 2026 either. According to the new rule, any player who registers for the auction but later pulls out after being selected will face a two-season ban.”
This policy aims to prevent last-minute withdrawals that disrupt team planning and affect the IPL auction strategy of franchises.
Harry Brook’s Struggles with Form and IPL History
Brook’s recent international performances have been below expectations. In his last five T20 matches, he has managed just 91 runs, with only one half-century to his name. His ODI performances have also been lackluster, scoring only 97 runs in six matches.
The 26-year-old batter had already skipped IPL 2024, citing family reasons just days before the tournament began. However, his decision to withdraw for a second consecutive year has now resulted in this two-year IPL ban.
Harry Brook’s IPL Career at a Glance
- IPL Team: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – 2023 Season
- Matches Played: 11 innings
- Total Runs: 190
- Best Performance: Century against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
His IPL journey so far has been brief, and with this two-year suspension, it remains uncertain whether he will return in IPL 2027.
Impact of Brook’s Ban on Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals’ Squad Planning for IPL 2025
With Harry Brook banned from IPL 2025, Delhi Capitals now need to find a replacement to fill the void in their middle order.
Some potential alternatives include:
- Travis Head – An aggressive left-hander with a strong IPL 2024 season
- Will Jacks – An explosive English all-rounder known for power-hitting
- Rassie van der Dussen – A reliable South African batsman with great consistency
With Brook’s absence, Delhi Capitals may choose to release him and invest in another foreign batter in the IPL 2025 auction.
Can Harry Brook Play in Other T20 Leagues?
Although Brook is banned from IPL, he is still eligible to participate in other global T20 leagues, such as:
- Big Bash League (BBL) – Australia’s premier T20 tournament
- Pakistan Super League (PSL) – A league where English players often shine
- The Hundred – England’s high-paced 100-ball competition
- Caribbean Premier League (CPL) – A fast-scoring T20 league in the West Indies
Brook’s T20 skills are still highly valued, and he might attract big contracts in these leagues despite his IPL ban.
What Are the Consequences of IPL Player Withdrawals?
Many fans are now wondering:
What happens if a player withdraws from IPL after the auction?
Under the new BCCI rule, any cricketer who registers for the IPL auction but later makes himself unavailable will be:
- Banned for two IPL seasons
- Unable to participate in the IPL auction
- At risk of losing future franchise contracts
This strict measure ensures that teams don’t suffer unexpected withdrawals that could impact their squad balance and performance.
What Does This Ban Mean for IPL’s Future?
With the introduction of this new rule, IPL teams can now expect:
- More commitment from foreign players entering the auction
- Better squad stability with fewer last-minute withdrawals
- Stronger enforcement of IPL contracts by the BCCI Governing Council
While some argue this policy is too strict, others believe it will ensure that players honor their IPL commitments.
Final Thoughts: Will Harry Brook Return to IPL in 2027?
Harry Brook’s two-year IPL ban is a huge setback for both the player and his franchise, Delhi Capitals. With his struggles in international cricket and limited IPL experience, his comeback in IPL 2027 remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals must restructure their squad and find a suitable overseas player to fill Brook’s position.
FAQs
1. Why was Harry Brook banned from IPL?
Ans: Harry Brook was banned for two seasons (IPL 2025 & 2026) after withdrawing from the tournament, violating IPL’s new withdrawal rule introduced by the BCCI.
2. What is the new IPL player withdrawal rule?
Ans: Any player who withdraws after being picked in the auction will face a two-year ban from IPL participation and future auctions.
3. Can Harry Brook play in IPL 2027?
Ans: Yes, after serving his two-year ban, Brook will be eligible to participate in IPL 2027 if he registers for the auction.
4. How does Brook’s ban affect Delhi Capitals?
Ans: Delhi Capitals, who bought Brook for ₹6.25 crore, will now need to find a replacement in the IPL 2025 auction.
5. Can Harry Brook play in other T20 leagues?
Ans: Yes, Brook can still play in BBL, PSL, The Hundred, and CPL, as his ban applies only to the IPL.