England opening batter Ben Duckett has withdrawn from the upcoming 2026 season of the Indian Premier League, opting to choose his international commitments with England instead of franchise cricket.
At the IPL 2025 auction, Duckett, 31, was purchased by Delhi Capitals at INR 20 million. He called the decision a tough one in an interview with The Telegraph, and apologised to the franchise directly.
Duckett added, that he had been truly excited when a club such as Delhi Capitals had selected him and that being selected by the club was one of the biggest moments of his life. He explained that he was very excited to take part in one of the World’s most competitive T20 franchises.
There are also important consequences due to his withdrawal. Under the regulations of BCCI that were introduced ahead of IPL 2025, a two-season ban will be applied to a player who exits after being bought by a franchise.
Due to this, Duckett will not be allowed to participate in IPL in the coming two years (until 2029), which makes his future in the tournament uncertain.
The left-handed batter admitted that this ruling is serious; however, he claimed that his lifelong priorities did not leave him much choice. It was his boyhood ambition to play for England, and he must do that first of all.
Duckett will stay in England to play local four-day cricket with Nottinghamshire, rather than travelling to India.
He has mentioned the necessity of taking a physical and mental break before the upcoming test matches, and that he will work closely with his coaching staff to refine his fitness and consistency.
Duckett, 31, had to admit that he cannot be sure that he will ever play in the IPL, but he did not rule out a future stint with Delhi Capitals should the need arise.
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