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Ben Duckett Withdraws from IPL 2026, Delhi Capitals Seek Replacement

England batter Ben Duckett has withdrawn from the upcoming IPL 2026 season, dealing a blow to the Delhi Capitals who had bought him for Rs 2 crore. Duckett cited a desire to focus on his international career after a poor Ashes series where he averaged just 20.2. The left-handed opener expressed regret over the decision, acknowledging it might mean saying goodbye to the IPL forever. Delhi Capitals are now actively searching for a replacement ahead of their opening match against Lucknow Super Giants on April 1.

Key Points: Ben Duckett Pulls Out of IPL 2026 | Delhi Capitals Replacement

  • Duckett withdraws from IPL 2026
  • Decision follows disappointing Ashes series
  • Delhi Capitals searching for replacement
  • Focus on England international career
  • IPL season starts April 1
2 min read

IPL 2026: Ben Duckett pulls out after poor Ashes show; Delhi Capitals to pick replacement soon

England's Ben Duckett withdraws from IPL 2026 to focus on international career after poor Ashes. Delhi Capitals to announce a replacement soon.

IPL 2026: Ben Duckett pulls out after poor Ashes show; Delhi Capitals to pick replacement soon
"It was a very difficult decision, and I want to apologise to everyone in Delhi that I won't be coming. - Ben Duckett"

New Delhi, March 24

Ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026, Delhi Capitals opener Ben Duckett has pulled out of the tournament. A source in the Delhi Capitals confirmed tothat England batter Duckett informed them about pulling out of the Indian Premier League 2026.

"Yes, Duckett told us he won't be available to play this season. A search for his replacement is on and will be conveyed in due course of time," further said the source.

Duckett was bought for Rs 2 crore at the auction and was expected to partner KL Rahul at the top of the order. However, he has decided to focus on his international commitments with England. The left-hander made this announcement just days before the tournament starts, which is a setback for Delhi's preparations.

Duckett explained that his choice to skip the IPL was influenced by a disappointing winter. He scored 221 runs at an average of 20.2 during the Ashes. Although he was on the T20 World Cup 2026 squad, he did not play in any matches. This further shaped his decision to focus on his international career.

"It was a very difficult decision, and I want to apologise to everyone in 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," Duckett told Telegraph Sport.

Reflecting on his future in the league, the 31-year-old admitted uncertainty over whether he will get another chance. "I don't know if I'm potentially saying goodbye to the IPL, having never played in it. At my age, 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," he added.

Delhi Capitals will start their IPL 2026 campaign against the Lucknow Super Giants on April 1. The match is scheduled to take place at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Respect his decision to prioritize his country, but timing is everything. Delhi Capitals paid 2 crore! Now they have to scramble. Hope they pick a good Indian opener instead. We have so much talent here.
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Aman W
Honestly, his Ashes performance wasn't great. Maybe it's a blessing in disguise for DC. They can now get a hungrier player. IPL is the toughest league, you need players who are 100% committed.
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Sarah B
As a cricket fan, I feel for him. It must be a tough call. But the IPL schedule is known well in advance. Franchises deserve more certainty from overseas players they invest in.
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Vikram M
Focus on your career, fine. But don't say you were "buzzing" and then leave us in the lurch days before the tournament! DC should look at someone like Devdutt Padikkal or a hard-hitting overseas option.
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Kavya N
It shows the mental pressure players are under. Poor Ashes, didn't play in the WC... his confidence is low. Maybe stepping back is right for him. Wishing him the best, but Delhi needs to move on fast! 💪

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