Former India opener Aakash Chopra has raised concerns over a growing trend of withdrawals by English cricketers from the Indian Premier League, warning that franchises could rethink investing in young players from England after Ben Duckett’s sudden exit from IPL 2026.
Duckett, who was signed by Delhi Capitals for Rs 2 crore at last year’s auction, pulled out of the upcoming season, citing a desire to spend time at home and prioritise red-ball cricket. His decision comes in the aftermath of a disappointing Ashes campaign and limited involvement in the recent T20 World Cup.
As per the IPL’s updated regulations, Duckett now faces a potential two-year ban from the league and future auctions. His late withdrawal is expected to trigger the penalty clause introduced last year, which targets overseas players who pull out of contracts at short notice. Notably, his England teammate Harry Brook is already serving a similar ban after withdrawing from his deal with Delhi Capitals ahead of the 2025 season.
Reacting to the development, Chopra voiced his frustration on social media, highlighting what he sees as a worrying trend. “Ben Duckett pulls out. Just like Brook. IPL teams might start cancelling ‘young’ English players in the future,” Chopra wrote on X.
Chopra also suggested that Delhi Capitals could use this opportunity to recalibrate their squad strategy. With multiple opening options already in place, including Prithvi Shaw and Pathum Nissanka, he advised the franchise to strengthen their spin department by bringing in an experienced overseas option.
“Perhaps, an opportunity for DC to make a slight pivot. How about a backup overseas spinner instead? Mujeeb. Keshav. Or someone else!!! They already have so many openers to choose from,” he added.
Duckett has been under scrutiny following England’s underwhelming Ashes campaign, where he managed just 202 runs. His struggles have persisted across formats, with only one half-century in his last 28 innings, raising further questions about his consistency.
Delhi Capitals, led by Axar Patel, must now identify a suitable replacement ahead of IPL 2026. They are scheduled to begin their campaign against Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on April 1 and will be keen to settle their squad quickly following Duckett’s late withdrawal.
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