Pacer Mark Wood has cut short his IPL stint with Chennai Super Kings to return to England and prepare for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan.

Wood will join up with Durham as he seeks to play himself into contention for England’s squad which will take on Pakistan in the two-Test series.

The fast bowler took to Instagram late on Tuesday to confirm the news of his departure from India.

“The decision has been made for me to return home to England to prepare for the English summer,” Wood wrote in his post.

“Having worked so hard to get back into the Test team, and because I’m not currently in the CSK side, I am coming home to play for Durham to hopefully put my name in the hat for Test match selection.

“To the CSK management, players, and supporters, thanks so much for the support and welcoming me into this family club. It was a very proud moment for me to be presented my cap by MS Dhoni.

“Although things didn’t quite go to plan this year, I hope to be able to wear it again. I’ll be watching you from home and cheering you on.”

The 28-year-old was bought by the franchise for his base price in the IPL auction. However, things didn’t go according to plan for Wood in what was his maiden IPL experience.

The England quick was given his debut in the tournament opener between the Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. He had an expensive spell where he conceded 49 runs without picking up any wickets.

That would be the last IPL action for Wood, who has not been picked again in the playing XI since then. The arrival of his England compatriot David Willey and then Lungi Ngidi meant that chances were going to be few and far in between. Hence, a decision to return to county cricket might be a move beneficial to all parties.