Ben Duckett withdraws from IPL 2026, faces potential three-year ban

New Delhi: England opener Ben Duckett was purchased by the Delhi Capitals during the IPL 2026 auction. However, he has decided against playing in the league. He opted to withdraw from the IPL to focus on his international cricket career. While describing this as a difficult decision, he stated that it was the right choice for his career path. Ben Duckett was part of England's squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup but did not get the opportunity to play a single match.

Ben Duckett to Face Ban from Playing in the IPL

Ben Duckett's withdrawal means that he will be unable to play in the IPL until 2029. Prior to the IPL 2025 season, the BCCI had announced that any player who withdraws after being purchased in the auction—without a valid reason—would face a two-season ban. Before the previous season, fellow Englishman Harry Brook had similarly withdrawn his name after the auction; consequently, he was banned until the 2027 season.

Duckett Explains His Withdrawal Was Not an Easy Decision

Speaking to *The Telegraph*, Ben Duckett said, "This was a very difficult decision, and I want to apologize to everyone at Delhi for not being able to join them. I felt that when I put myself up for auction, it would be a fantastic opportunity, and being picked by a franchise like Delhi was incredible. I was very excited. It is the best competition in the world, featuring the best players, and it would have been an amazing experience."

He further added, "I don't know if I am saying goodbye to the IPL forever or not, as I have never actually played in it. Given my current age (31), it might be difficult for me, but I hope that one day I will be able to represent Delhi." But I have thought a lot about this and know that it is the right decision for my career.