Harry Brook withdraws from India tour for personal reasons

In a big shock to England’s plans ahead of the upcoming five-match Test series in India, Harry Brook has pulled out of the tour for personal reasons right before England were due to arrive in Hyderabad on Sunday. Brook was a part of the travelling contingent but left the squad halfway from Dubai.

"Harry Brook is set to return home with immediate effect for personal reasons from the England Men's Test tour of India. He will not be returning to India,” ECB said in a statement.

"The Brook family respectfully requests privacy during this time. In light of this, the ECB and the family kindly request the media and the public to respect their wish for privacy and refrain from intruding on their private space."

Sky Sports News, however, reported that the Yorkshire batter could still return at some point. For now, England have named Surrey's Dan Lawrence as the replacement to join the Test squad. Lawrence, who was a reserve for the Ashes, last played a Test back in March 2022.

Book has been a big part of England's plans under the Brendon McCullum era, averaging 62.16 from 12 Tests. In the process, he has scored 1181 runs at a strike rate of 91.76 since making his debut against South Africa at the Oval in September 2022.

With Brook now not available, England may rethink their whole approach in the batting order and in all probability, will slot Jonny Bairstow as a specialist batter, with Ben Foakes handling the keeping responsibilities. England have many options available in India at the moment, considering the Lions squad are on a tour of the nation for a three-match series in Ahmedabad. 

England, who are yet to win a Test series in India since 2012, will be taking part in a five-match series, starting in Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium from January 25.