England’s Harry Brook banned from IPL for two years after late withdrawal

England cricketer Harry Brook has been handed a two-year ban from the Indian Premier League (IPL) after pulling out at the last minute to prioritize international commitments, according to local media reports.

Brook, 26, was signed by Delhi Capitals for the upcoming IPL season but withdrew from the tournament just days before its start. The decision reportedly triggered the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) policy aimed at preventing late withdrawals by overseas players.

An unnamed BCCI official told the Indian Express that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has been informed of the ban. The official emphasized that players were made aware of these rules before registering for the IPL auction. While exceptions can be granted for injuries, Brook’s case did not qualify.

This is the second consecutive season Brook has withdrawn from the IPL. Last year, he opted out of playing for Delhi Capitals following the passing of his grandmother.

Apologizing to the franchise and its supporters, Brook recently posted on social media that he was “deeply sorry” for pulling out and needed time to “recharge” and focus on international cricket.

Brook previously played in the IPL for Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2023, making headlines with a 55-ball century against Kolkata Knight Riders.

The 2025 IPL season begins on March 22, with defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders hosting Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens.