Kevin Pietersen’s international career is over after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) “unanimously” agreed that he would not be in their future plans.
The ECB confirmed in a statement that Pietersen had not been considered for selection for the upcoming World Twenty20 in Bangladesh, and the he would not be considered again.
Paul Downton, the ECB managing director, believed that the time is right to build a new team as well as a new team ethic”.
“Clearly this was a tough decision because Kevin has been such an outstanding player for England, as the fact that he is the country’s leading run-scorer in international cricket demonstrates,” said Downton.
“However, everyone was aware that there was a need to begin the long-term planning after the Australia tour. Therefore we have decided the time is right to look to the future.
“England cricket owes a debt of gratitude to Kevin, who has proved to be one of the most talented and exciting players to ever represent the country and his 13,797 runs are a testimony to his immense skill,” he added.
Meanwhile, the former England batsman expressed his gratitude towards his supporters and reflected on his exemplary career, which included over 8000 test runs.
“Playing cricket for my country has been an honour,” said the 33-year-old.
“Every time I pulled on the England shirt was a moment of huge pride for me and that is something that will live with me forever.
“Although I am obviously very sad the incredible journey has come to an end, I’m also hugely proud of what we, as a team, have achieved over the past nine years.
“I feel extremely fortunate to have played at a time of great success for England cricket alongside some of the best cricketers the country has ever produced.
“I want to thank everyone for their fantastic support and I wish the team the very best of success going forward. I believe I have a great deal still to give as a cricketer. I will continue to play but deeply regret that it won’t be for England,” concluded Pietersen.
The South African-born right-hander is England’s top run scorer in all three formats of the game. He achieved an average of 47.28 over 104 Test matches and is second in terms of centuries, only behind Alistair Cook.
