England all-rounder David Willey has withdrawn from the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, becoming the latest player to do so.
The 34-year-old had initially opted out of the beginning of this year’s IPL due to personal reasons but has now decided to pull out of the entire tournament.
Lucknow Super Giants have drafted in fast bowler Matt Henry to take Willey’s place in their squad.
Willey, a left-arm quick from England, was acquired by LSG for his base price of INR 2 crore (approximately US $239,856) during last year’s mini-auction in Dubai. He had previously spent two seasons with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Willey had been on the road for two months leading up to the IPL, having played for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders and Multan Sultans in the ILT20 and the PSL, respectively. Prior to that, he participated in the World Cup held in India.
Henry, purchased by LSG for INR 1.25 crores, joins the IPL after a successful home summer in Tests against South Africa and Australia. He was also the third-highest wicket-taker for his team in the ODI World Cup, securing 11 wickets at an average of 28.63.
In total, Henry has featured in 131 T20 matches, claiming 151 wickets. However, he has only played two IPL matches previously, representing Kings XI Punjab in 2017. Across those matches, he bowled five overs and managed to take just one wicket.
Henry had also entered his name for this season’s auction but went unsold. He was previously part of Chennai Super Kings’ squad but did not get an opportunity to play for them.