Moeen Ali backs IPL’s decision to ban Harry Brook

England all-rounder Moeen Ali has shared his thoughts on Harry Brook’s possible two-year ban from the Indian Premier League (IPL), saying he understands and agrees with the decision.  

Brook, who was bought by Delhi Capitals for INR 6.25 crore at the auction, recently announced his withdrawal from the tournament. This was the second year in a row that he pulled out, leading to reports that the IPL has decided to ban him for two years.  

According to Indian media, the league has officially informed both Brook and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) about the decision. A spokesperson reportedly explained that all players were made aware of this policy before registering for the auction.  

“An official communication has been sent to ECB and Brook about BCCI banning him for two years as per its policy which was informed to each player before they registered their name for IPL auction last year. It’s a policy set by the board and each player has to oblige to it,” the spokesperson said.  

The IPL recently introduced a rule to discourage late withdrawals by overseas players. Moeen Ali, who plays for Chennai Super Kings, supported this policy, saying it prevents teams from facing last-minute changes.  

"It's not [harsh] though, I kinda agree with it," Moeen said during a podcast when asked if the two-year ban was too strict.  

"A lot of people do that [withdrawing]. People have done it in the past, and then they come back in and end up getting a better financial package or whatever it is. It kinda messes up a lot of things as well at the same time.  

"It's messed his team [Delhi Capitals] up, him pulling out. Any team that loses Harry Brook is messed up a bit, and they've got to now rejig everything and stuff like that. Forget him for a second, if you do pull out, the rule is you get a ban, unless it's a family reason or injury. If it's injury, it's different. But I think if you just pull out, then it's… I kinda agree with it [the rules]."  

Brook has not yet responded to the reports of his ban.