"I wanted to play for the full six weeks," Mascarenhas told The Times. "But that was never going to happen and, eventually, we reached a compromise.

"Rod Bransgrove (Hampshire chairman) held all the cards. He knew that I could not go without Hampshire's permission.

"There was no threat to leave (Hampshire). I would never say that and, if Rod had said no, I would have stayed anyway - I think we are both fairly happy with the outcome."

Mascarenhas is confident that players such as Middlesex's Owais Shah and Essex's Ravi Bopara will sign up to the tournament, and believes Indian franchises are eager to recruit more English players.

"I know that the IPL want more English players," he said. "I think non-contracted players will go, like Owais Shah and Ravi Bopara. Luke Wright is a good hitter and, perhaps, Chris Tremlett."

"A clash with the English season would make it harder for them.

"The ECB can tell them to rest or play for their counties. For the others, it is up to the counties and they may help their players because it is such a good opportunity."

There has been a lot of speculation regarding the amount of money players will be earning for taking part in the inaugural event.

Mascarenhas was sold for $100,000, but, with payment on a pro rata basis, he stands to make a hefty £20,000 for his 14-day stint with Jaipur.

"Not a killing at all," he said. "If I do well, there is the opportunity to earn more next year - really, it is the experience of being there that grabs me."

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