Sussex all-rounder Luke Wright has joined Sajid Mahmood by rejecting 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 Ravi 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.

"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."

Hampshire skipper Dimitri Mascarenhas is England's only current representative in the IPL, but established stars like Kevin Pietersen and Ryan Sidebottom have also declared their interest in participating in future.

Mahmood believes there is little reason why England's stars cannot enjoy the benefits of playing in both competitions.

"It is only three or four weeks out of the season," he added.

"If players can go out there, benefit financially as well as test themselves against the top players in the world, they can come back better for it.

"It's a chance to impress on a big stage against quality players and that's something that could impress the ECB and selectors."

Sporting Life / Eurosport