New Delhi: Sunil Gavaskar has called for tougher punishment for the last-minute return of the IPL, insisting that existing rules are failing to stop overseas players following Ben Duckett’s exit from IPL 2026 by Delhi Capitals.Duckett, who was bought for Rs 2 crore, opted out of the tournament days before the tournament to focus on his England commitments, disrupting DC’s preparations and reigniting the debate over player accountability in the league.Go beyond limits with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!Gavaskar did not hold back in his assessment of the situation, questioning the effectiveness of the current punishment. “It’s a tough one… one can understand that he wants to focus on his England Test career,” Gavaskar told India Today, acknowledging Duckett’s priorities after the demanding international schedule.
However, he emphasized that understanding the decision does not mean accepting its impact on the league. “What should be done is for him. BCCI to think about, because the two-year ban is clearly not working,” he said.The former Indian captain emphasized that the current rule has no real results. “You have to look at something that has an impact. Unless it’s impacting the player and there’s no chance of him coming back to the IPL, it’s not going to work,” he added.Withdrawal sparks a new debate.The IPL currently imposes a two-year ban on foreign players who withdraw after being selected in the auction without valid injury reasons. However, repeated incidents have raised doubts about its effectiveness.Duckett’s withdrawal follows similar precedents, including Harry Brook, who is already serving a ban after withdrawing last season.The England opener defended his decision, saying it reflected his commitment to national duty. “To turn down a good chunk of money … is a step in the right direction to show how much it means to me to play for England,” Duckett said.While the league attracts global stars, such last-minute exits disrupt the team’s balance and planning. Gavaskar hinted that unless the BCCI imposes tougher penalties, this trend may continue.
