Islamabad, March 14, 2025: England batter Harry Brook has been handed a two-year suspension from the Indian Premier League (IPL) by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) following his decision to withdraw from the 2025 season.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has been informed about the decision, which was taken in line with the IPL’s new policy regarding overseas players opting out after securing a contract.
As per media reports, both Brook and the ECB were officially notified about the ruling.
A BCCI official confirmed that the board’s policy had been communicated to all players prior to the auction, making it mandatory for them to adhere to the guidelines.
The rule states that any player who registers for the auction and later withdraws before the season begins will face a two-season ban from both the tournament and future player auctions.
Brook, who was signed by Delhi Capitals for INR 6.25 crore in the 2024 auction, pulled out of the upcoming season to focus on his international commitments with England.
In a statement, Brook expressed that withdrawing from the IPL was a difficult decision but one he believed was necessary to prioritize his responsibilities with the England team.
He emphasized that it was a crucial period for English cricket and that he needed time to recharge after an intense phase in his career.
This marks the second consecutive season Brook has opted out of the IPL. In 2024, he withdrew due to the passing of his grandmother.
Having made his IPL debut with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2023, the young batter has played 11 matches in the league, scoring 190 runs, including a century.