'Would love to play the IPL in future' - Harry Brook aspires IPL return after two-year ban

England’s white-ball skipper Harry Brook has expressed his desire to return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the future, despite currently serving a two-year ban from the tournament. Brook was handed the suspension after pulling out of the 2025 IPL season following a lucrative signing by the Delhi Capitals.

Brook was bought for INR 6.25 crore by the Delhi-based team during the IPL 2025 auction. However, just before the tournament began, he opted out due to international duties with England. This exit violated the BCCI’s newly implemented rule introduced in September 2024, which states that if a player withdraws after being picked in the auction, they will be automatically banned for two seasons. Brook became the first cricketer to fall under this rule. The 25-year-old admitted it was a tough decision, but stuck by his decision of prioritizing his country over franchise cricket.

“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. I would love to play the IPL in the future, but for the time being, the focus is on England duties,” Brook said in a media interaction organised by Sony Sports Network

There is probably more in it for spinners: Harry Brook on Edgbaston pitch

Despite missing the IPL, the batter has made good use of his time with the national side. He featured in England’s series against Zimbabwe and the West Indies. His decision has also paid off in the ongoing Test series against India.

In the first Test of the five-match series, Brook scored a brilliant 99 in the first innings, falling just short of a century but playing an important role in England’s win. He failed to make an impact in the second innings. He also opened up about the upcoming second Test, starting July 02 in Birmingham.

“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,” Brook added.