England’s white-ball captain Harry Brook has expressed hope of returning to the Indian Premier League (IPL) someday, despite currently serving a two-year suspension. In an interview with Sony Sports Network, Brook opened up about his absence from the 2025 IPL season, calling it a “tough decision” but necessary to prioritise international duties.
Brook, who was bought by Delhi Capitals for INR 6.25 crore at the 2025 auction, withdrew from the tournament just weeks before it began, citing a packed England schedule. However, his decision triggered the BCCI’s revised code of conduct, implemented in September 2024, which states that any player who pulls out post-auction without medical grounds or approval will be barred from participating in the next two IPL seasons.
“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,” Brook said.
“I would love to play the IPL in the future, but for the time being, the focus is on England duties.”
Brook’s decision has kept him fully available for England’s international calendar, starting with the home assignments against Zimbabwe and the West Indies, and now the ongoing Test series against India.
In the first Test at Headingley, the Yorkshire batter narrowly missed out on a century, scoring 99 runs in the first innings before falling short. He couldn’t add much in the second innings, but his contribution played a role in England’s five-wicket victory, which gave them a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
Brook on the Edgbaston Challenge
Looking ahead to the second Test at Edgbaston starting July 2, Brook offered insights into the surface and conditions players may face.
“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,” he said.
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