With the surge in franchise tournaments and T20 leagues, the concept of signing players on a yearly basis has gained traction among franchise owners. Previously, the likes of Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer have been rumoured to have been offered full-time contracts with their respective IPL teams.
While the idea of securing players through full-time contracts has been floated in franchise tournaments, the England all-rounder Harry Brook has stated that he has no intention of entering into such agreements with any franchise. His focus remains firmly on representing England across all formats.
“Franchise cricket is a bonus but I’m completely focused on playing cricket for England,” said Brook as quoted by BCCI Sport.
Sunrisers Hyderabad made a significant financial commitment of INR 13.25 crore to bring Brook into their IPL squad, considering his previous exploits in the Pakistan Super League, Australia’s Big Bash and for England itself.
However, Brook struggled to justify his price tag, managing only 190 runs in 11 matches at an average of 21 and a strike rate of almost 121, which included a century as well.
‘IPL Is The Only One That Is Free’ – Harry Brook
The 24-year-old further highlighted the difficulties of managing time across all three formats, leaving little room for franchise tournaments.
He also added that the IPL’s well-planned schedule, taking place during periods with no major international cricket, provides players with the chance to play in the tournament.
“If I’m in all three formats for England, I don’t really feel like there’s too much time to be playing any other franchise stuff. The IPL is the only one that is really free, when you’re available for everything.”
Following an underwhelming IPL season, the spotlight now shifts to Sunrisers Hyderabad’s decision on retaining the English batter and displaying confidence in him for the upcoming edition of the lucrative tournament.
