Mahmood rejects IPL offers
Sajid Mahmood has become the latest England player to reveal he has rejected offers to join the Indian Premier League.
The Lancashire seamer's admission came less than a day after Essex all-rounder Ravi Bopara confirmed he had turned down a lucrative six-figure deal to play in the Twenty20 competition as he feared jeopardising his future international prospects.
"A lot of people on the circuit are saying the IPL is the way forward," said Mahmood, 26, who has not played for his country for more than a year.
He 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."
England players who decide to join the IPL risk not being picked at present.
Mahmood added: "I've had offers to join the IPL but I'm desperate to work my way back into the England side.
"That's the reason why I got into cricket in the first place and the desire is still burning brightly.
"I'm only 26, I've got a lot of years ahead of me in the game, and it would be great to spend those years representing my country and taking wickets.
"However, if things don't work out in that regard, the IPL is a massive draw. There is a hell of a lot of money on offer out there and a cricketer's career is a short one.
"There's not much I or anyone can really do at the moment, though, with the way things are. My aim is by the end of this year, three-quarters into the season, to be back in the England side. If not then I can start having a chat and see about looking at my options."
