Australian batsman Brad Hodge will join Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League for the next five weeks.

Hodge's switch to IPL in May meant that he will miss out on ties for Lancashire in the English county circuit.

"I'm still in shock at the opportunity that has been presented," Hodge was quoted as saying to BBC Sport.

"Twenty20 is a format I really enjoy and to be part of the inaugural IPL tournament is something most cricketers would find hard to turn down," the 33-year-old added.

It's been an extremely difficult decision to make, but Lancashire have been very understanding of my situation and I hope to repay them on the field when I return," he said.