Cricket365

Wright The Latest To Reject IPL Offer

Thursday 8th May 2008

Sussex all-rounder Luke Wright has joined fellow England colleagues Ravi Bopara and Sajid Mahmood and rejected the chance to join the Indian Premier League

The 23-year-old was approached to play in the lucrative Twenty20 tournament but has decided to focus his efforts on his international career.

Wright's decision follows that of Lancashire paceman Mahmood and Essex all-rounder Bopara who, despite not being centrally contracted, have prioritised their England prospects ahead of the IPL.

"Obviously I was very pleased to be considered for the IPL, however, at the moment my main focus and priority is playing for my country," Wright said.

"If the timings were different and it wasn't going to affect my chances of playing for England then it would be something I would seriously have to consider.

"I am now very much looking forward to the match against New Zealand which is obviously a great chance for me to prove myself in the longer version of the game and hopefully push for a Test place."

Mahmood has not played for his country for more than a year but hinted he could be tempted by the IPL if he continues to be ignored.

"A lot of people on the circuit are saying the IPL is the way forward," Mahmood told BBC Sport.

"My aim is and always has been to play for England, but if you're not getting in the side, the IPL is a big carrot.

"I've had offers to join the IPL but I'm desperate to work my way back into the England side."