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Harry Brook, the dynamic English batsman, has recently joined the ranks of players withdrawing from the imminent Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Signed by the Delhi Capitals for INR 4 crore, Brook has now disclosed the precise rationale behind his eleventh-hour decision to withdraw from the lucrative league.
Personal tragedy unveiled
In an emotional statement shared on his Instagram account, Brook revealed the heartbreaking reason behind his withdrawal. The cricketer disclosed that he recently lost his grandmother, who played a pivotal role in shaping his life and cricketing career.
Tribute to grandmother
Brook expressed his deep connection with his grandmother, highlighting her influence on his upbringing and passion for cricket. He reminisced about the cherished moments spent with her and acknowledged her role in his achievements.
“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 should 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 said in a statement he released on Instagram.
“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. When at home, there would hardly be a day go by that didn’t include seeing her. It makes me so happy that she was able to see me play cricket for England. I’m proud that she could collect some of the awards I have won over the last couple of years when I couldn’t be there and I know she enjoyed doing that,” added Brook.
Also READ: IPL 2024 – 3 players who can replace Harry Brook in Delhi Capitals (DC) squad
Prioritizing family and mental wellbeing
The young cricketer emphasized the importance of prioritizing his family’s wellbeing during this challenging time of grief. Reflecting on his decision to leave the India Test tour earlier, Brook reiterated his commitment to his family’s needs and his own mental health.
Gratitude to supporters
Despite his withdrawal, Brook expressed gratitude to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Delhi Capitals for their support and understanding. He thanked them for their encouragement during this difficult period.
“I made the decision to leave the India Test tour the night before we flew from Abu Dhabi to India because I was told for the first time that my grandmother was ill and didn’t have long left. Now that she has passed my family and I are grieving and I need to be around them. 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 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. I couldn’t be more grateful for the support I have received, especially from the ECB and Delhi Capitals, thank you,” Brook added further.
