2 English Players Reject IPL 2026 Offers, Prioritize England Stay

• Jamie Smith and Josh Tongue reportedly declined offers to join IPL 2026 as replacement players.
• The duo intends to spend the next two months in England, though County Championship participation is unclear.
• This follows Ben Duckett's withdrawal from Delhi Capitals to focus on County cricket, fitness, and mental health.
• ECB's new multi-year central contracts (up to GBP 800,000 annually) offer financial security, rivaling IPL earnings.
• Guaranteed wealth allows players to prioritize national duties and recovery over short-term IPL stints.