Ryan McLaren says being involved in the Twenty20 Indian Premier League in his native South Africa was still an awesome experience despite not making an appearance for Mumbai Indians.

However, the 23-year-old Kent all-rounder admits he is worried about the future of the shortest form of the game. He said: "I think it’s a great concept and offers cricket something different.

"I do think, though, that Test cricket is still the ultimate for any international player. It’s where you earn your stripes and where you judged on all facets of the game.

"My concern about Twenty20 is that it does not suffer from overkill. People need to manage it properly and how it fits into the busy international schedule will be a key factor."

Mumbai were one of the wealthiest of the franchises taking part in the event but McLaren’s chances of playing were reduced by the fact that only four overseas players were allowed in any side.

He added: "Just being part of the tournament was amazing being able to learn from all the international players in the team on how they react in certain situations."

Kent tried to negotiate an early release for McLaren, who says he was ready to go but knew Mumbai wanted him to stay to the end, with the possibility of the team getting to the semi-finals and final.

"We didn’t do that, and I can understand Kent wanting me here as soon as possible, which is what I happened, leaving straight after the last game and playing my first Twenty20 match against Middlesex at Lord’s.