Image Source: Instagram
[Saba Sports News] England’s Harry Brook announced he will miss IPL 2024, prioritizing family time after his grandmother’s passing. Purchased by Delhi Capitals for INR 4 Crore in the mini-auction, Brook expressed his initial excitement for the season.
“I can confirm that I have made the very difficult decision not to play in the upcoming IPL. I was so excited to be picked by Delhi Capitals and was so looking forward to joining up with everyone. Whilst I don’t think I need to share my personal reasons behind this decision, I know there will be many asking why. So I do want to share this,” Brook shared on Instagram.
However, he chose to be with his family during this tough period, following the loss of his grandmother, Pauline, in February. Brook, who values his mental and family well-being above all, had also opted out of a recent Test series against India for personal reasons.
“I lost my grandmother last month – she was a rock to me and I spent a huge amount of my childhood in her home; my attitude to life and love for cricket was shaped by her and my late grandfather, Now that she has passed my family and I are grieving and I need to be around them,” he added. “Over the last few years I have learned to prioritise my mental wellbeing and that of my family’s, honestly nothing is more important to me than my family. So whilst this may come as surprising to some, I know it’s the right decision for me. I’m young and hope to have many, many more years of cricket to come which I intend to make the absolute most of.”
Despite his anticipation for the IPL, he felt the need to stay with his grieving family. Last year, Brook joined Sunrisers Hyderabad for INR 13.25 Crore but didn’t live up to expectations, with his standout performance being a century against Kolkata Knight Riders.
His decision to not participate this season leaves Delhi Capitals seeking a replacement for the talented batsman.