England’s vice-captain, Harry Brook, has unexpectedly opted out of the IPL 2025 season, catching many off guard with his decision just days before the tournament’s onset. Former England captain, Nasser Hussain, weighed in on the matter, pondering the motives behind Brook’s choice.
Hussain speculates that Brook might be feeling overwhelmed, given his role as one of England’s few all-format players. With Jos Buttler stepping down from the captaincy, Brook is also seen as a strong candidate for the white-ball captaincy, which adds to the pressure he’s already under.
In recent years, Brook has become a critical component of England’s batting line-up across all formats. Yet, this abrupt withdrawal from the IPL came as a surprise to his numerous fans, who weren’t expecting such a move from the rising star.
Nasser Hussain elaborates on what’s possibly behind Brook’s decision. During an interview with Sky Sports, Hussain considered the likelihood that Brook’s heavy schedule played a part in his exit from IPL 2025. It seems plausible that England’s Managing Director, Rob Key, discussed Brook’s burgeoning responsibilities and the possibility of him taking on the captaincy.
Hussain mused, “I think it could be a clue as to what’s coming. Rob Key might have approached him, saying, ‘You’ve got a full plate, and we might need you to lead.’ It’s anyone’s guess, but Brook has a demanding nine months ahead with a massive home Test series against India and an away Ashes tour in Australia.”
Brook was absent from the last tour due to personal family matters. Hussain suggested, “He might be prioritizing Test cricket at the moment.”
Looking ahead, England is slated to host a five-match Test series against India starting June 2025, followed by the highly anticipated Ashes in Australia. Brook’s involvement is expected to be crucial in both series.
Hussain also predicted that Brook’s break from the IPL will help him regain form. “I’m sure Rob Key has had a chat with him about how to manage his workload. Only they know the full conversation,” Hussain speculated.
With Brook having taken some time off, Hussain is hopeful, “He can find his rhythm again, get back in form, and be ready for these pivotal Test series.”
Interestingly, this marks Brook’s second consecutive year pulling out from the IPL. Originally slated to represent the Delhi Capitals after being snapped up for INR 6.25 crore, his withdrawal was officially communicated by the ECB to the BCCI last week, and in turn, to the Delhi team.
There’s a real possibility that the new IPL regulations might lead to Brook facing a two-year ban from future participation. Although no official statement from the IPL has surfaced, Brook expressed on social media his need to recharge after an intense period, making it clear he prioritized some downtime.
