swashbuckling batter Harry Brook has opted out of this year’s IPL (Indian Premier League) due to personal reasons.
The talented English batter, who was acquired by the Delhi Capitals for a sum of INR 4 crore, will be a big miss for the franchise.
Notably, Brook was also absent from the recent engagements with the England cricket team. Initially included in the Test squad for the series against India, Brook withdrew from the squad unexpectedly, prompting the England team management and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to request privacy for the player and his family during this challenging time.
“The Brook family respectfully requests privacy during this time. In light of this, the ECB and the family kindly request the media and the public to respect their wish for privacy and refrain from intruding on their private space,” stated the ECB in a January release.
On the other hand, Brook’s absence will also open doors for a replacement in overseas batters category. Here are three potential options which could serve as replacement:
1. Jake Fraser-McGurk: At just 21 years old, Jake Fraser-McGurk has already made a significant mark on the cricketing scene, earning his debut for the Australia ODI team.
In his two matches so far, he has showcased his batting prowess, accumulating a total of 51 runs, with a notable top-score of 41. Across 37 T20 matches, the young batsman has showcased his talent, accumulating a total of 645 runs, including three half-centuries.
2. Finn Allen: A top-order New Zealand batter, Allen has been among the most destructive batters of the modern T20I era. His aggressive approach with the bat has made him a sought-after player in T20 franchise cricket.
3. Rassie van der Dussen: A handy batter in the middle-order, Dussen has the capability to take down spinners on any track. His exploits in the World Cup 2023 will make him a prospect if he gets picked.