New Delhi: Sunil Gavaskar has called for tougher penalties for last-minute exits from the IPL, insisting that the current rules have failed to deter overseas players despite Ben Duckett being picked by Delhi Capitals to withdraw from the 2026 IPL.Duckett, who was bought for a cost of Rs 2 crore, opted out days before the game to focus on his commitments in England, throwing preparations in DC into disarray and reigniting the debate around player responsibility in the league.Push boundaries with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!Gavaskar did not hesitate to assess the situation and question the effectiveness of existing punishments. “It’s a difficult process… one can understand that he wants to focus on his England Test career,” Gavaskar told India Today, acknowledging Duckett’s priorities after a hectic international schedule.
However, he stressed that understanding the decision does not mean accepting its impact on the league. “What should be done is for BCCI Think about it, because a two-year ban clearly doesn’t work,” he said.The former India captain stressed that the current rules lack real consequences. “You have to think about something that will have an impact. As long as it doesn’t have an impact on the player and his chances of returning to the IPL, it won’t work,” he added.Withdrawals spark new debateThe IPL currently imposes a two-year ban on overseas players who are picked in the auction and suffer injuries without valid reasons. However, recurring cases have raised questions about its effectiveness.Duckett’s exit follows similar incidents, including that of Harry Brooke, who was already suspended after withdrawing from last season.The England opener defended his decision, saying it reflected his commitment to national duty. Duckett said: “Rejecting a large sum of money… is a step in the right direction and shows how important it is to me to play for England.”While the league continues to attract global stars, this last-minute exit disrupts the team’s balance and plans. Gavaskar hinted that this trend may continue unless the BCCI enforces tougher penalties.
