Ben Duckett pulls out of IPL 2026 deal with Delhi Capitals, faces ban possibility

England's star batter Ben Duckett has withdrawn from the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 on Tuesday, March 24, just days before the start. He was with the Delhi Capitals (DC) for this season. This move could potential cost him a 2-year ban from the league as per the new guidelines. 

The IPL committee came up with a guideline last season for the players who withdraw from the tournament before the start date. As per rules, players could face upto three years ban and financial penalty. While speaking to the Telegraph Sport, Duckett mentioned that he chose England cricket over IPL. 

“It was a very difficult decision, and I want to apologise to everyone at Delhi that I won’t be coming,” said Duckett as quoted by Telegraph Sport.

“I felt it was going to be a great opportunity when I put myself in the auction, and for a franchise like Delhi to pick me up was amazing. I was buzzing. It’s the best competition in the world with the best players, and would have been an amazing experience," he added.

Goodbye to the IPL: Ben Duckett

Ben Duckett revealed that he isn;t sure if he will return to the league since he is 31 years old and it might be tough for him. However, this decision came from a point where he wants to spend some time with his family and prepare for the upcoming series for England. 

“I don’t know if I’m potentially saying goodbye to the IPL, having never played in it. With the age I am now (31), it might be tough for me, but I hope one day I’m able to represent Delhi. But I’ve thought a lot about this, and know it’s the right decision for my career,” Duckett said.

“I’ve made this decision on my own accord. I’ve spent a lot of time away from home in different places, and it felt like the best thing for me to do to be ready to play for England is to be here right now, at home, refreshing my mind and body. We all have different journeys, but my journey into the Test team has come from County cricket. I know how valuable that is for me, scoring runs in the Championship and the confidence that gives me going into the rest of the summer," he said.