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59 minutes ago
Batter Harry Brook has withdrawn from this year’s Indian Premier League, saying he wants to prioritise playing for England.
Brook, 26, was signed by Delhi Capitals at the IPL auction last year in a deal worth 6.25 crore (£590,000).
But he has withdrawn for the second year in a row, leaving him at risk of being banned from the tournament for two years.
“I know not everyone will understand and I don’t expect them to, but I have to do what I believe is right and playing for my country remains my focus and priority,” said Brook.
“I need time to recharge after the busiest period of my career to date.”
Brook, an England regular across all formats, pulled out of last year’s IPL following the death of his grandmother.
The IPL brought in a new rule for this year’s tournament, under which players who pull out after being selected are banned for two seasons. There is an exemption for “injury or medical condition”.
Brook was part of England’s squad who exited the Champions Trophy without winning a match last week.
Prior to that he was part of the party that toured India and lost seven of their eight white-ball matches.
Brook has struggled for form personally, with only 188 runs across 11 innings at an average of 17.09 this year. Despite that, he is seen as one of the leading candidates to replace Jos Buttler as England’s white-ball captain.
Brook apologised “unreservedly” to Delhi Capitals and the franchise’s supporters.
“I love cricket. Ever since I was a boy I have dreamt of playing for my country and I am thankful to have the opportunity to play the game I love at this level,” he said.
“With the guidance of people I trust I have taken the time to seriously consider this decision. It is a really important time for England cricket and I want to fully commit to preparing for the upcoming series.”
England do not play again until a four-day Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge, which begins on 22 May. The IPL final is on 25 May, the fourth day of the Test.
After Zimbabwe, England have three one-day internationals and three T20s against West Indies before a much-anticipated five-match Test series against India.
This year also includes an Ashes series in Australia, which begins in November, following white-ball series against South Africa, Ireland and New Zealand.
