Johnson set to ignore IPL again

	Mitchell Johnson wants to focus on Australian duties rather than heading to India for the IPL © Getty Images

Mitchell Johnson has changed his mind on appearing in the IPL this year after deciding it would be better for his long-term future to skip the tournament. Johnson did not take part in last year's event as he aimed to secure his hold on a Test spot and having achieved that goal, he expressed his interest in the IPL for 2009.

Johnson was expected to earn a huge sum in next month's player auction. However, his heavy recent workload - he is being rested for Australia's first ODIs this year - and the hectic upcoming schedule encouraged Johnson to focus on his national duties.

"We decided not to go last year because he wanted to get fit and build his strength and consolidate his place in the Australian team," Johnson's manager Sam Halvorsen told the Weekend Australian. "You would have to say, looking back now, it worked effectively. With that same thing in mind we want to protect his long-term interests and I don't see that will be served by playing the IPL and he agrees."

Halvorsen said although Johnson would be turning down a massive amount of money, that was not the only criterion to consider. He said it was likely that several players who took part in last year's tournament might have had second thoughts as to whether it was worth it.

"Physically when you are playing as much cricket as they are you have to take a rest," Halvorsen said. "Mitchell was bowling 50 overs a Test match and it was fast bowling. He's also been scoring runs.

"If you don't take a rest you are going to ruin yourself. We see Mitchell playing for eight to 10 years and his interests won't be served by playing IPL this season."