Glenn Phillips Backs BCCI's Decision Regarding Harry Brook's IPL 2025 Absence
Ahmedabad, March 27, 2025 (IST) – Gujarat Titans’ new recruit and New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips has voiced his support for the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) decision to ban England batter Harry Brook from participating in the next two editions of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Brook’s withdrawal from IPL 2025, citing personal reasons, has resulted in a significant penalty, marking him as the first player to face such repercussions.
The Controversy and the Rule
Harry Brook, who was signed by the Delhi Capitals at last year’s auction for ₹6.25 crore, became the subject of this action following the BCCI’s introduction of a stricter rule after IPL 2024. This rule was implemented in response to multiple overseas players, including Brook, withdrawing from the tournament after being signed during the auction. The BCCI’s intention was to deter players from committing to contracts and then reneging on their commitments.
Phillips' Perspective
Speaking to news agency PTI, Phillips stated, “At the end of the day, they warned people, if you come in and you decide to go, that they knew about the rules to start. If the rules weren’t there, I think it would be a bit harsh, but the rule is there.” Phillips' endorsement underscores the BCCI's stance on contractual obligations and the importance of player commitment within the league.
Impact Player Rule: A Mixed Bag
Beyond the Brook situation, Phillips also commented on the heavily debated Impact Player rule. He acknowledged both the advantages and disadvantages of the rule, expressing concern about its potential long-term effects on the prevalence of all-rounders in both domestic and international cricket.
- Positive Aspects: The Impact Player rule allows for greater tactical flexibility and diverse lineups.
- Potential Concerns: Phillips worries that the rule might lead to a decline in the selection of all-rounders, potentially impacting the international game.
He elaborated, “I’m neither here nor there for it. It definitely allows a lineup to do different things. But I do feel like there could be an issue at some stage with all-rounders losing out and not being so prevalent, which then obviously has an impact on international game, international T20s, international one days. So for now, it’s a great entertaining brand of cricket. But I think what the IPL has done really well is changed the rules to what the environment is going through.”
Other Observations
- Phillips, who was among the unused Impact subs for Titans in their first match against Punjab Kings, also supported the BCCI in lifting the ban on saliva usage on the match balls.
- Having previously played for Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals, Phillips expressed that the Gujarat Titans is currently his “favorite franchise” so far.
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