Harry Brook breaks silence on BCCI ban in IPL for 2 years

English middle-order batter Harry Brook has opened up about his desire to return to IPL after serving a two-year ban imposed by BCCI. Brook said that the decision to withdraw from the IPL was “incredibly difficult” and described the league as the best franchise tournament in the world.

Harry Brook was bought by Delhi Capitals for ₹6.25 crore in the IPL 2025 auction but withdrew from the tournament to focus on his commitments with the England national team. He breached the BCCI’s updated policy, which imposes a two-year ban on any player who pulls out after being picked in the auction.

It Was an Incredibly Difficult Decision - Harry Brook on Skipping IPL 2025

Harry Brook said that the IPL is the best franchise cricket tournament in the world, with intense competition and electrifying crowds. Brook added that his current focus remains firmly on his responsibilities with the England national team.

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“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 said.

The BCCI introduced a new rule in September 2024, stating that any player who withdraws from the IPL after being bought at the auction would face a two-season ban. Brook was the first player to be penalized under the new policy.

The Edgbaston Pitch Can Be Flatter - Harry Brook

Harry Brook, who is currently part of England’s Test squad for the ongoing series against India, shared his thoughts on the conditions expected at Edgbaston. Brook mentioned that the pitch there tends to be flat, and any assistance for spinners is likely to come later in the match.

“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," Brook added.

England Take 1-0 Lead After Winning Series Opener vs India

England took a 1-0 lead in the series after winning the opening Test at Headingley. Harry Brook impressed in the first innings, scoring 99 runs before falling just short of a century. However, he couldn’t make an impact in the second innings, as he was dismissed for a golden duck.

Brook had some luck during his first innings. He top-edged a short ball from Jasprit Bumrah and was caught by Mohammed Siraj, but the delivery was ruled a no-ball due to Bumrah overstepping. Brook capitalized on the reprieve and added valuable runs before eventually falling to Prasidh Krishna.

He was instrumental in England’s first innings as they posted 465, reducing India’s lead to just six runs. England then chased down a challenging target of 371 on Day 5 to seal a five-wicket victory. The upcoming second Test is set to be played at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Wednesday, July 3.

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