In yet another setback to the Delhi Capitals franchise, Chris Woakes has decided to pull out of the upcoming IPL season which starts on March 29. Woakes took the decision considering the workload in front of him as he wants to keep himself fresh for England's international assignments. Woakes is currently preparing for England's two-match Test series to be held in Sri Lanka.
Woakes has informed the Delhi franchise of his decision. He was bought for INR 1.5 crores at the 2020 IPL auction. England are scheduled to play 6 home Tests against West Indies and Pakistan while the IPL will run from March 29 to May 24. With Woakes' withdrawal, Delhi's seam-bowling stocks have taken a hit with both Ishant Sharma and Kagiso Rabada out currently with injuries. It remains to be seen if Delhi opt for a replacement for Woakes.