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The unexpected withdrawal of England’s Harry Brook from Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has put Delhi Capitals (DC) in a difficult situation just days before the tournament begins. The middle-order batter, known for his aggressive stroke play, was expected to play a crucial role in Delhi’s campaign. However, Brook has once again opted out of the IPL, citing his commitments to England cricket. His absence leaves a significant gap in DC’s batting lineup, forcing the franchise to swiftly look for a suitable replacement. With the tournament fast approaching, Delhi will have to rethink their strategies and make adjustments to ensure they do not suffer from the void created by Brook’s withdrawal.
Harry Brook’s repeated IPL absence and underwhelming past stint
Brook’s withdrawal marks the second consecutive season he has opted out after being signed by an IPL franchise. In 2023, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) acquired him for a hefty sum of INR 13.25 crore, but he struggled to make a mark, scoring only 190 runs at an average of 21. As a result, SRH released him before the 2024 auction, where Delhi secured him for INR 4 crore. However, he withdrew from that season as well, and despite DC acquiring him again for INR 6.5 crore in 2025, Brook has once more pulled out of the tournament. His decision reflects his prioritization of England’s international commitments over franchise cricket, leaving DC in a challenging position ahead of IPL 2025.
Also READ: IPL 2025: Delhi Capitals’ batter Harry Brook pulls out of the tournament. Here’s the reason
3 potential replacements for Harry Brook in Delhi Capitals’ IPL 2025 squad
With Brook pulling out of IPL 2025, DC must find a suitable replacement to strengthen their middle order. Among the unsold players from the IPL 2025 mega auction, three names stand out as potential candidates: Dewald Brevis, Michael Bracewell and Kyle Mayers. Each of these players brings a unique skill set that could help DC fill the void left by Brook’s absence.
1. Dewald Brevis – The young power-hitter in form
Dewald Brevis, famously known as “Baby AB” for his resemblance to AB de Villiers, remains a promising batting option for DC. Despite going unsold in the IPL 2025 mega auction with a base price of INR 75 lakh, Brevis has been in sublime form in domestic cricket. In the ongoing CSA Provincial One-Day Challenge Division One 2025, he has amassed 362 runs in six innings at an impressive average of 72.40 and a blistering strike rate of 157.39. His ability to accelerate the innings with powerful stroke play and adapt to different situations makes him a viable candidate to replace Brook in DC’s squad. With previous IPL experience at Mumbai Indians, Brevis could be a valuable addition to DC’s middle order, providing the much-needed firepower.
2. Michael Bracewell – A versatile all-rounder with balance
New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell, who remained unsold at the IPL 2025 mega auction with a base price of INR 2 crore, is another strong contender for DC. A left-handed batter and a handy off-spinner, Bracewell brings versatility to the team. In the Champions Trophy 2025, he has scored 82 runs in five matches at an average of 41, with a best score of 53 not out in the final. More importantly, he has also proven his effectiveness with the ball, claiming eight wickets at an economy of just 4.10, including a best spell of 4/26. His ability to contribute in both departments makes him a strategic pick for DC, especially on slower surfaces where his off-spin can be useful. Additionally, Bracewell’s experience in high-pressure situations could add depth to DC’s squad, making him an excellent option to replace Brook.
3. Kyle Mayers – An explosive all-rounder with IPL experience
Kyle Mayers, the hard-hitting West Indian all-rounder, was also left unsold in the IPL 2025 mega auction at a base price of INR 1.5 crore. A left-handed batter who also bowls medium pace, Mayers had a solid debut IPL season in 2023, scoring 379 runs in 13 matches at an average of 29.15, including four half-centuries. His highest score of 73 showcased his ability to take on top-quality bowling attacks. However, in the 2024 season, he spent all of his time on the bench for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), limiting his opportunities to make an impact. Despite that, his aggressive batting approach, combined with his ability to bowl medium pace, makes him an exciting replacement for Brook. With his experience in Indian conditions and an attacking mindset, Mayers could provide the balance DC needs in their squad for IPL 2025.
