"It Was a Very Difficult Decision" – Ben Duckett Withdraws from IPL 2026 to Save England Test Career

Ben Duckett has withdrawn from his IPL 2026 contract with Delhi Capitals to focus on red-ball cricket and regain form ahead of England’s upcoming Test season. The England batter will instead play county cricket for Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club at the start of the season.

Duckett was signed at the auction but was not guaranteed a place in the playing XI due to overseas competition. His withdrawal could lead to a two-year IPL ban under league rules that penalise overseas players who pull out after signing contracts. His England teammate Harry Brook previously faced a similar ban after withdrawing from a Delhi Capitals contract.

Speaking about the decision, Duckett said:

"It was a very difficult decision, and I want to apologise to everyone at Delhi that I won't be coming. 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."

Focus on Test cricket and Form Recovery

Duckett’s decision follows a difficult period with the bat after England’s recent Ashes series. He had been regarded as one of England’s key multi-format openers but struggled for consistency across formats over the past several months.

He confirmed that he wants to spend time in England working on his game and preparing for the upcoming Test series later in the year. Duckett will train under Nottinghamshire head coach Peter Moores and work on fitness ahead of the international summer.

"I've made this decision on my own accord," Duckett said. "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."

Nottinghamshire Support Decision

Nottinghamshire’s director of cricket Mick Newell said the club supported Duckett’s decision and welcomed his availability for the early part of the county season. The club will provide support as he works to regain form and push for England selection.

Duckett also addressed an off-field incident during the Ashes tour and apologised, calling it unprofessional and accepting responsibility.

The decision means Duckett may miss the IPL for multiple seasons, but he believes focusing on county cricket and Test preparation is the right move for his long-term England career.