Digital Desk, Busted: Before the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, England batsman Ben Duckett’s sudden decision to withdraw from the tournament has sparked a new debate. Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has given a strong reaction on this issue and has demanded strict action against such players. Gavaskar believes that the current two-year ban rule is not enough to stop the players. He said that if players keep pulling out at the last moment even after the auction, it will affect both the strategy and balance of the teams.

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Big blow to Delhi Capitals

For IPL 2026, Delhi Capitals bought Ben Duckett for Rs 2 crore. He was expected to open for the team, but just before the start of the tournament he withdrew to concentrate on international cricket. This decision has dealt a big blow to the team’s preparations, because a player’s withdrawal at the last moment affects the team combination.

What did Gavaskar say?

Sunil Gavaskar raised questions on the policy of BCCI and said that the current rules are not proving effective. According to him: “The BCCI should seriously consider this. A mere two-year ban is not enough. There should be a punishment which has a real impact on the players and prevents them from withdrawing at the last moment.”

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What are the current rules?

According to IPL rules, if a foreign player withdraws from the tournament after being selected in the auction, he can be barred from the IPL and future auctions for two seasons. However, exemptions are given in cases of injury or medical reasons.

This has happened before too

Harry Brook has also withdrawn from IPL earlier. He was bought for Rs 6.25 crore and he too is facing such a ban. With such cases coming to the fore continuously, it is becoming a serious issue for both the IPL franchises and the board. Now it remains to be seen whether BCCI takes new and strict steps on this.

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