Harry Brook Faces Two-Year IPL Ban; Michael Clarke Supports BCCI’s Decision

In a surprising turn of events, England cricketer Harry Brook has been banned from playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for two years. The ban comes after Brook decided to withdraw from the IPL after being bought by Delhi Capitals for ₹6.25 crores in the IPL Mega Auction last year.

According to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) rules, players who are sold at the auction but later choose to withdraw face a two-year ban. Michael Clarke, the former Australian captain, has supported the BCCI’s decision. He said that the ban would serve as an important message for the future and that players should not back out just because they are not happy with the auction price.

Clarke explained, “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 enter 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.”

He added, “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 also praised Brook as a talented player and hoped he would be part of the IPL in the future. He also emphasized that no player should withdraw from the tournament without a valid reason.

In his response, Harry Brook explained that he withdrew from the IPL because of a family tragedy. He mentioned that he could not remember whether it was his first or second year with the IPL, but the loss of a family member was the reason behind his decision. He expressed hope that the IPL would understand his personal circumstances.