Rising England star Harry Brook has withdrawn from the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League while apologising for his decision. This is the second year in the running that Brook has pulled out from the IPL. The 26-year-old made the announcement via social media explaining that his priority remains England cricket. He was picked by Delhi Capitals for Rs 6.25 crore at the mega auction last year. “I have made the very difficult decision to pull out of the upcoming IPL,” Brook posted on X. “I apologise unreservedly to the Delhi Capitals and their supporters. I love cricket. Ever since I was a young boy, I have dreamt of playing for my country, and I am extremely thankful to have the opportunity to play the game I love at this level. “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. In order to do this, I need time to recharge after the busiest period in my career to date. 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 priority and focus. I remain hugely grateful for the opportunities I have been given and the support I receive,” he added. The 26-year-old Brook had last year pulled out of IPL citing the passing away of his grandmother as the reason. He last represented Sunrisers Hyderabad during the 2023 season. Last year, the BCCI informed IPL franchise that if an overseas player opts out ahead the start of a season after getting picked at the auction, he will get banned for two seasons. “Any [overseas] player who registers for [an] auction and, after getting picked at the auction, makes himself unavailable before the start of the season will get banned from participating in the IPL/IPL auction for two seasons,” the BCCI document read.