English cricketer Harry Brook has opted out of his Indian Premier League (IPL) contract with the Delhi Capitals for the second consecutive year, putting himself at risk of a two-year suspension from the tournament.
Brook informed the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) of his decision, which was subsequently conveyed to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Delhi Capitals franchise. The 25-year-old batter was acquired for INR 6.25 crore (£590,000) during the IPL auction in November 2024.
In a statement posted on social media, Brook cited the need to “recharge after the busiest period in my career to date” as the reason for his withdrawal. His decision has fueled speculation regarding his potential candidacy to succeed Jos Buttler as England’s white-ball captain, following the team’s early exit from the Champions Trophy.
Brook’s withdrawal places him in jeopardy of a two-year ban under a new IPL rule implemented before the 2025 auction. According to the ruling, any overseas player who registers for the auction but later withdraws before the start of the season, without a verified injury or medical condition, will be barred from participating in the next two IPL seasons.
This is the second straight year Brook has withdrawn from the IPL. In 2024, he stepped away from the tournament to be with family following the passing of his grandmother.
The IPL 2025 season is set to commence on March 22, with the Delhi Capitals scheduled to play their first match against the Lucknow Super Giants on March 24.
Brook previously played one season with Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2023, where he managed 190 runs at an average of 22.11. His campaign included a standout performance of 100 not out from 55 balls against the Kolkata Knight Riders, but he struggled to maintain consistency throughout the tournament.
The Delhi Capitals will now have to reassess their squad composition ahead of the upcoming season, with Brook’s absence creating a void in their batting lineup.
