‘Two-year ban doesn’t work’: Sunil Gavaskar calls for stricter rules for IPL draws | Cricket News –

NEW DELHI: Sunil Gavaskar has called for tougher punishment for last-minute IPL withdrawals, insisting that current rules fail to deter foreign players after Ben Duckett pulled out of IPL 2026 despite selecting Delhi Capitals.Duckett, who was bought for Rs 2 crore, opted out just days before the tournament to focus on his England commitments, leaving DC’s preparations in disarray and reigniting the debate over player accountability in the league.Go beyond boundaries with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!Gavaskar did not back down from his assessment of the situation, questioning the effectiveness of the current punishment. “It’s difficult… one can understand that he wants to focus on his England Test career,” Gavaskar told India Today, acknowledging Duckett’s priorities after a demanding international schedule.

But he stressed that understanding the decision does not mean accepting its impact on the league. “What to do is something the BCCI should consider, because it is clear that a two-year ban will not work,” he said.The former India captain stressed that the current rule lacks real consequences. “You have to look at something that will have an impact. As long as it does not impact the player and his chances of returning to the Indian Premier League, it will not work,” he added.

Withdrawals raise new controversyThe Indian Premier League currently imposes a two-year ban on foreign players who withdraw after being selected in the auction without legitimate injury reasons. But repeated cases have raised doubts about its effectiveness.Duckett’s withdrawal follows similar instances, including that of Harry Brook, who is already serving a ban after withdrawing the previous season.The England national team defended its decision, saying that it reflects its commitment to national duty. “Turning down a large sum of money…is a step in the right direction to show how important it is to me to play for England,” Duckett said.While the league continues to attract international stars, such last-minute departures disrupt the team’s balance and planning. Gavaskar hinted that unless the BCCI imposes tougher sanctions, this trend may continue.