Essex all-rounder Graham Napier admits he is disappointed he will not be playing in India when he turns out for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL.
South Africa will host the second season of the Indian Premier League because of security concerns back home with the elections taking place.
Napier accepts the decision but was looking forward to playing in front of packed houses in India.
The 29-year-old has just returned from playing for England Lions as well as the Wellington state side in New Zealand, but is raring to head off to South Africa.
Mumbai Indians and Essex are yet to agree on how long Napier will play in the IPL, with the start date now put back to April 18.
"Firstly I'm disappointed the IPL won't be in India," Napier told www.grahamnapier.com.
"It would have been a great experience in front of the Indian fans, who are renowned for being fantastic cricket supporters.
Security
"However, I do realise it has to be moved for security reasons so South Africa will also be a very exciting experience.
"I have played out there before (for England in the Under-19 World Cup and pre-season with Essex) so am looking forward to returning soon.
"South Africa did seem the better option [as opposed to England] at this time of year because the weather is a lot warmer and more predictable.
"There is always the chance of April showers back here as well as there being a massive difference in the pitches and conditions between South Africa and England at the moment.
"It's the end of their cricketing summer in South Africa so they are all ready to go.
"They are also good supporters of cricket so I'm sure it will be well attended and well organised."
