Brook pulls out of IPL to recharge, focus on England

England batsman Harry Brook on Monday pulled out of the Indian Premier League, saying he needed “to recharge” and focus on international cricket.

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The 26-year-old, who is regarded as a front-runner to replace Jos Buttler as England white-ball captain, was signed to Delhi Capitals for the new IPL season beginning later this month.

“I have made the very difficult decision to pull out of the upcoming IPL,” Brook, who plays Tests, ODIs and T20s for England, wrote on social media.

“I apologise unreservedly to the Delhi Capitals and their supporters.”

Free-scoring batsman Brook also withdrew from his contract with the Delhi side last season after the death of his grandmother.

He now faces a possible two-year suspension under rules designed to prevent late pullouts from the money-spinning T20 league by overseas players. Exceptions can be made, mostly for injuries.