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FORMER Bolton League star Sajid Mahmood has not had any concrete offers to join the lucrative Indian Premier League.

The Lancashire bowler was reported to have received two offers to play in this year's Twenty20 competition.

The 26-year-old ex-Egerton and Astley Bridge player admitted he could be tempted by the IPL, but added his main aim was to force his way back into the England side.

He was quoted as saying: "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.

"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.

"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."

But, in a statement, Lancashire said: "Sajid has never been offered any form of Indian Premier League contract.

"He had a vague inquiry a couple of months ago, which was never pursued further."

Mahmood has not featured in England colours since the 50-over World Cup in the West Indies last April. He has played eight Test matches and 25 one-day internationals in total. He has only played 12 Twenty20 games in all for Lancashire and England, two of them being international games. He has only taken six wickets.

9:22pm Wednesday 7th May 2008

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