
In a setback for Delhi Capitals, cricketer Harry Brook has withdrawn from participating in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, less than ten days before its commencement in 2024.
Brook, acquired during the IPL 2024 auction in December for ₹4 crore, cited “personal reasons” for his decision to opt out of this year’s tournament, according to a Cricbuzz report.
The 25-year-old England cricketer had an underwhelming IPL debut last year with the Sunrisers Hyderabad, scoring only 190 runs from 11 T20 matches, averaging 21.11.
Brook’s absence extends beyond the IPL; he was also a notable absentee from the England team recently. Originally slated to participate in the Test series in India, Brook withdrew from the Test squad at the last minute, with the England team management and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) seeking privacy for the player and his family.
This trend of English players withdrawing from commitments citing personal reasons has caused resentment among the IPL franchises. They contend that such unexpected and sudden pullouts disrupt their auction planning. IPL franchises are considering addressing this issue with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Attempts to reach Delhi Capitals officials for comment went unanswered, suggesting they are looking for a replacement for Brook.
Despite his significant role in the Bazball style of play under the current Ben Stokes-Brandon McCullum management of the England team, Brook’s performance in the IPL last year was underwhelming. Despite being purchased by SunRisers Hyderabad for a hefty sum of INR 13.25 crore in the 2023 season, he managed only 190 runs at a lowly average of 21.
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