Harry Brook Faces Two-Year IPL Ban; Michael Clarke Supports BCCI’s Decision
In a significant development, England batter Harry Brook has been banned from participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for two years. Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has voiced his support for the decision. Brook was purchased by Delhi Capitals for ₹6.25 crores during the IPL Mega Auction last year.
According to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regulations, if a player who has been sold in the auction wishes to withdraw later, they face a two-year suspension. Clarke stated that he fully understood the BCCI's stance and noted that the decision would serve as an example for the future. He emphasized that players withdrawing from the tournament over dissatisfaction with the auction price was inappropriate and suggested limiting withdrawals to genuine emergencies.
“Why was Harry Brook bought? He has a full contract with the ECB (England Cricket Board). Now, he’s banned from the IPL. Whatever happened, it’s for the best. Many players participate in the auction, and not everyone gets the price they expect. What the IPL is saying is, if you leave after being sold at the auction, you automatically face a two-year ban,” Clarke explained.
“It seems Brook is the first player to be banned like this. But I understand why the IPL is doing this. Every player wants more money, but if you enter the auction and get sold, you have to honor that commitment. You can’t just pull out because you didn’t get the amount you wanted,” Clarke added. Praising Brook as a remarkable player, Clarke expressed optimism that Brook would be part of the IPL in the future and insisted that no player has withdrawn from the league without a valid reason.
Responding to the situation, Brook clarified that he could not recall if it was his first or second year with the IPL, but he withdrew due to the death of a family member. He emphasized that his decision was based on personal reasons and hoped that the IPL would understand his circumstances.
