Former England cricketer Michael Vaughan has revealed that Ben Duckett, the talented opener, has turned down an offer to replace Harry Brook in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. This unexpected decision comes in light of Brook’s withdrawal from the tournament, which he announced was due to his need to focus on his international commitments and recharge after a demanding period in his career.
Michael Vaughan throws light on Ben Duckett declining an IPL offer
During a segment on Cricbuzz Live, Vaughan disclosed that Delhi Capitals (DC) approached Duckett as a potential replacement for Brook, who had been signed for a substantial ₹6.25 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction. However, Duckett’s refusal raises questions about his motivations and the dynamics within the DC squad. “I did hear a whisper that they [Delhi Capitals] went for Ben Duckett but Ben Duckett doesn’t wanna come over,” Vaughan stated, indicating that Duckett’s decision was firm.
Duckett has been in impressive form off-late, having made headlines during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 where he scored a remarkable 165 runs against Australia. His performance highlighted his capability as a top-order batter, making him a desirable candidate for any franchise looking to strengthen their roster. Despite this, it appears that Duckett has opted to prioritize other commitments over joining the IPL.
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Alternate options for the franchise
The Delhi-based franchise now face a pressing challenge as they seek a suitable replacement for Brook. The franchise has several options on the table, including New Zealand all-rounder Daryl Mitchell and Sri Lankan player Dasun Shanaka. Mitchell is seen as a viable alternative due to his middle-order batting capabilities and previous experience in T20 leagues, while Shanaka has reportedly been training with the team and has connections through his performances in the ILT20.
Brook’s withdrawal from IPL 2025 has not only left DC in a lurch but also carried repercussions for him personally. His decision has reportedly displeased the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), resulting in a two-year ban from participating in future IPL seasons. This sanction underscores the importance of player commitment to the league, particularly when franchises invest heavily in acquiring talent.
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