Hodge joins IPL

Lancashire's Australian batsman Brad Hodge is to play for Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League and will miss the next five weeks of the county season.

Hodge will leave for India following Lancashire's LV Division One match against Somerset.

Lancashire chief executive Jim Cumbes said: "Brad is arguably one of the best Twenty20 players in the world. Although it's disappointing to be losing a player of his calibre for part of our season, we are very lucky at Lancashire to have depth in our squad - and this is a great opportunity for someone else to step up to the plate."

Hodge explained: "I was approached only 24-48 hours ago and I'm still in shock at the opportunity that has been presented.

"Twenty20 is a format I really enjoy and have a good record in, and to be part of the inaugural IPL tournament is something most cricketers would find hard to turn down.

"It's been an extremely difficult decision to make. But Lancashire have been very understanding of my situation, and I hope to repay them on the field when I return."

Lancashire have no current plans to bring in another overseas player to cover for Hodge's absence.