ESSEX described Ravi Bopara's decision to reject an offer from the Indian Premier League as a "wise decision" today.

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The identity of the franchise approaching the England all-rounder or the money on offer has not been disclosed, but Bopara rejected the chance to concentrate on domestic commitments.

Essex coach Paul Grayson said: "Ravi is a highly talented cricketer with bat and ball, so it was inevitable he would be wanted for a competition like the Indian Premier League. We appreciate the loyalty Ravi has shown as he wants us to continue the progress we have made here at Essex after a good start to the season. I believe he has made a wise decision, because if he keeps producing the goods for us he will have a long and successful career with England ahead of him."

Bopara said: "My first priority is with England. As a kid, my ambition was to have a successful international career. All my cricketing idols have had successful international careers and I want to emulate them. My decision was made with England in mind. I’m currently playing well and with a Test series coming up against New Zealand, if there was an injury to our batting line-up, I’d like to think I would be next in line."

He added: "I’m a London boy, but have been with Essex CCC for about 10 years, so I’m Essex through and through now. I love playing at Essex and want to play for them for the rest of my career."

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