Harry Brook has withdrawn from the IPL for the second time in a row, issuing an "unreserved apology" to Delhi Capitals in a social post.
Brook, the 26-year-old batting sensation, posted a statement on social media detailing his withdrawal from the IPL less than two weeks before the first game of the tournament. Brook was picked up by the Capitals for INR 6.5 crore, a jump over his base price of INR 2 crore, and was set to potentially feature in a top order including KL Rahul, Faf du Plessis and Jake Fraser-McGurk, among others.
Brook is in contention to be the next England white-ball skipper, following Jos Buttler's resignation at the end of a disappointing Champions Trophy 2025.
He withdrew from the Indian Premier League last year as well, following the death of his grandmother and was replaced by Lizaad Williams in the DC outfit. He was bought for INR 4 crore in the IPL 2024 auction.
Also read: IPL 2025 – All ten squads
Brook: "I have to do what I believe is right'
In a note posted on social media, Brook said: "I have made the very difficult decision to pull out of the upcoming IPL. I apologise 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."
Also read: Explained: The IPL mega-auction ban threat that twisted Jofra Archer's arm to enter for 2025
Will Brook be reprimanded by IPL?
Brook could be in for a potential two-year ban from the IPL, with the tournament cracking down on late, non-medical pull-outs of overseas cricketers. A statement ahead of the IPL 2025 auction said:
"Any [overseas] player who registers for [an] auction and, after getting picked at the auction, makes himself unavailable before the start of the season will get banned from participating in the IPL/IPL auction for two seasons."
Follow Wisden for all cricket updates, including live scores, match stats, quizzes and more. Stay up to date with the latest cricket news, player updates, team standings, match highlights, video analysis and live match odds.
