It was an incredibly difficult decision to pull out of IPL 2025, says England’s Harry Brook

After having been signed by Delhi Capitals for ₹6.25 crore in the 2025 IPL mega auction, Harry Brook decided to pull out of the tournament to focus on his England National team commitments. 

The decision did not go down well in these parts, leading to a two-year IPL ban.

Brook, however, has no regrets. He used the window to feature in outings against Zimbabwe and West Indies, and made useful runs. 

And in the first Test against India, he scored a crucial 99 to play his part in England’s victory. 

On opting out of the IPL, Brook stated: “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.  

Turning his attention to the second India-England Test, which begins at Edgbaston on Wednesday, Brook stated that spin may come into the picture in the latter stages of the outing. 

“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 said. 

The 26-year-old said that he enjoyed watching Rishabh Pant bat in the first Test. “He is an awesome player. I enjoyed watching him bat. He’s an eye-catcher; everyone turns on the television when he bats. In my opinion, he is one of the best batters in the world,” Brook said. 

Watch 2nd Test Between India & England on July 2nd, 3:30 PM onwards LIVE On Sony Sports Ten 1 & Sony Sports Ten 5 channels