Harry Brook pulls out of Ind T20 League 2024 

Harry Brook has pulled out from the Indian T20 League, citing personal reasons. The England international, who was bought by Delhi for a whopping INR 4 crore, has opted to withdraw from the league, which commences on March 22. 

The Batter’s absence extends beyond the tournament; he was also a noteworthy absentee  from the side recently.  Originally scheduled to partake in the just concluded Test series in India, Brook withdrew from the test squad at the very last minute, with the England team management and the England and Wales Cricket Board seeking privacy for the 25 year old and his family. 

“The Brook family respectfully requests privacy during this time. In light of this, the ECB and the family kindly request the media and the public to respect their wish for privacy and refrain from intruding on their private space," ECB stated in a January release.

This trend of English players backing out from commitments citing personal reasons has led to resentment among the Ind T20 League franchises. Such unexpected and sudden withdrawals often disrupt their auction planning. Ind T20 League franchises are contemplating addressing this issue with the Indian Cricket Board.

"Once players register for the auction, they should honour their commitment. Reneging on it is unprofessional, and the Indian Cricket Board should address this," said a franchise official. This is not the time when such pullouts have occurred; players like Jason Roy, Alex Hales and even Mitchell Starc have withdrawn citing personal reasons in the past. Delhi is yet to   comment upon the entire situation. They will most likely opt for a replacement. 

Brook has played a pivotal role in Bazball style of play. However, he had a disappointing Ind T20 League 2023, scoring only 190 runs at a poor average of 21. Consequently, Hyderabad who purchased him for INR 13.25 crore in the 23’ season released him before the latest auction, where his services were acquired by Deli for Rs 4 crore.