England news: Saqib Mahmood turned down the IPL to focus on Test dream

Mahmood got his first taste of Test cricket on England's tour of the West Indies in March. He gave a good account of himself, too, taking six wickets at an average of just less than 23.

It was key for him to show it off in England colours too because it is a skill he has shown with Lancashire before.

"I turned down an IPL offer just to be here playing for Lancashire and try to push my red-ball credentials," Mahmood said.

"I spoke to a couple of the guys around me and felt as though it was in my best interests at the moment to focus on red-ball cricket.

"I got talking to him about why he didn't go to the IPL and he said he wanted to prioritise red-ball cricket and be a part of the squad moving forward.

"I had left that morning having had the chat with Stokesy, who would earn millions in the IPL but wanted to push this team forward.

"I've had success with England in a white-ball shirt as well but how much I enjoyed myself out in the Caribbean - I have never enjoyed myself that much ever on a cricket field.