Kevin Pietersen will return to the England set up for the first time in 12 years after joining the men’s white ball coaching staff.
The former England batter will start his new role next week. He will work as a specialist mentor under head coach Brendon McCullum.
Pietersen will be part of the coaching team for England’s upcoming series against Sri Lanka.
The 46 year old last represented England in 2014. His international career ended after England’s 5-0 Ashes defeat in Australia.
Pietersen said returning to the England set up is a special moment for him.
“I am immensely proud to have been asked to help this team on their journey to win a World Cup in South Africa,” Pietersen said.
“Putting on the England uniform again for the first time since 2014 is a profound honour and a deeply special moment.”
Pietersen believes England have plenty of talent in their white ball sides. He is keen to help the players make the most of their ability.
“We have an incredibly talented white-ball squad, and I am excited to get in the trenches and work relentlessly hard with these players to maximise their potential.”
He is also looking forward to working with McCullum.
“To be a part of Brendon’s think tank over the next 12 months is a fantastic opportunity, and I cannot wait to get started.”
Pietersen was one of England’s leading batters during his playing career. However, his relationship with the team management became difficult during the final years of his international career.
England dropped him for the Lord’s Test against South Africa in 2012 after he sent messages to opposition players that criticised some of his teammates.
He later returned to the side under Alastair Cook. Pietersen then played an important role as England won a historic Test series in India.
But problems with the management returned. England ended his central contract following the 2013-14 Ashes series.
Pietersen continued playing in domestic competitions around the world. He later moved into media work and has also worked as a mentor with Delhi Capitals in the IPL.
He had shown interest in working with England’s batters in recent years. He will now have that chance.
McCullum believes Pietersen’s experience can help England’s players.
“I’ve got immense respect for KP and what he’s achieved in the game. He’s had an amazing impact on English cricket, so for someone with his experience, knowledge and stature to want to play a role with this team is a fantastic result,” McCullum said.
The England coach is particularly excited about what Pietersen can offer the batters.
“I’m particularly excited for our batters to get the opportunity to work with him. KP has a unique understanding of what it takes to perform at the highest level, which will be hugely valuable to our players.”
McCullum and Pietersen faced each other during their international careers. They will now work together in the England set up.
“We’ve always respected each other and had a strong appreciation for what the other brings to the game, so I’m really looking forward to working together,” McCullum said.
Marcus Trescothick, Tim Southee and Jeetan Patel will also work alongside McCullum. Fielding specialist Sarah Taylor will complete the coaching group.
Pietersen’s arrival adds another experienced former international to England’s white ball coaching staff as they continue their preparations for the World Cup in South Africa.
