Harry Brook Eyes IPL Return After BCCI Ban; Focused on England Test Duties for Now

England batter Harry Brook has expressed his keen desire to return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the future, despite currently serving a two-year ban for opting out of the 2025 season.

Brook, who was bought by Delhi Capitals for ₹6.25 crore in the IPL 2025 auction, withdrew from the tournament just before its start to focus on national duties. His exit, however, triggered the BCCI’s newly introduced rule—implemented in September 2024—that mandates a two-year ban for any overseas player who pulls out after being picked in the auction without a valid injury or personal reason.

Speaking about the situation, Brook told The Hindu, “It was an incredibly difficult decision. The IPL is an amazing tournament. It’s tough cricket, with the best players in the world. The crowds and atmosphere are amazing. It is the best franchise tournament in the world. I would love to play the IPL in the future, but for the time being, the focus is on England duties.”

Brook’s decision, while controversial in the IPL context, is in line with his ongoing Test ambitions. He remains an integral part of the England Test setup and was one of the top contributors in the series opener against India, scoring 99 in the first innings of the match at Headingley.

Now preparing for the second Test at Edgbaston, Brook reflected on the pitch conditions: “Historically, the Edgbaston pitch can be flatter. There is probably more in it for spinners. Otherwise, it is generally a typical English pitch. If there is any spin – and I’m completely guessing here – it will probably be late on days three, four and five.”

While Delhi Capitals and IPL fans may be disappointed with Brook’s absence, his commitment to England’s red-ball cricket is clear. However, Brook’s comments make it evident that he has not shut the door on the IPL, and may well return once his ban expires.

IPL Rule Breakdown: Why Brook Was Banned

• New BCCI Rule (2024): Any player bought in the auction who later pulls out without a valid injury or reason will be banned for two IPL seasons.
• First Case: Harry Brook became the first high-profile name penalized under this regulation after opting out of IPL 2025 post-auction.
• Objective: The rule aims to discourage late pullouts that can disrupt team planning and tournament integrity.

What’s Next?

Brook will continue to play a pivotal role for England in the ongoing five-match Test series against India. With the second Test set to begin at Edgbaston on July 2, 2025, at 3:30 PM IST, all eyes will be on Brook to replicate or better his Headingley performance.

India, led by Shubman Gill, will be looking to bounce back after a five-wicket defeat in the first Test. England, on the other hand, will be aiming to extend their lead in the series, with Brook playing a central role in their batting lineup.

Brook’s IPL ban may have sidelined his franchise career temporarily, but his international ambitions remain front and center—for now.