The cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to kick-off on March 22 with the match between reigning champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Of course this is the home game of KKR and that’s why this opening game will be held at the iconic Eden Gardens. Every team is gunning for the coveted title, and the preparations are well underway.
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Harry Brook pulls out of IPL 2025
Since every team has only limited resources available to them, the last thing a team could do is a player pulling out of the tournament. But that’s what has hit the Delhi Capitals (DC), who will have to go into the IPL 2025 without Harry Brook.
As per a report by ESPNCricinfo, it was ECB who conveyed the message to the BCCI that Brook was set to pull out of the IPL 2025. The same message was also transferred to the Delhi Capitals who bought Brook for INR 6.25 crore (£590,000) at the IPL mega auction last November.
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There’s no official confirmation as to why Brook decided to withdraw from the IPL despite the new rule which clearly indicates towards a two-year ban for a player who pulls out of the tournament after registering for the auction.
“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.”
However, there are rumors that the reason behind Brook’s sudden U-turn on the IPL is ODI captaincy, as the ECB is mulling over making him the next captain of the team after their disastrous performance in the 50-over format of late.
The 26-year-old also took to twitter to announce that he was set to pull out of the IPL 2025.
“I have made the very difficult decision to pull out of the upcoming IPL,” Brook tweeted. “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.”
— Harry Brook (@Harry_Brook_88) March 9, 2025
