Full statement by ECB on Kevin Pietersen's sacking

Following the sacking of Kevin Pietersen, the England and Wales Cricket Board released an official statement regarding their decision to not to include Pietersen in the squads for England’s tour of the Caribbean later this month and the ICC World Twenty20 to be held in Bangladesh in March despite him being the top-scorer in the last Ashes series.

Paul Downton, the Managing Director of England Cricket met Kevin Pietersen this week and, after a brief meeting it was decided that now was the time to start the rebuilding process after England’s disappointing winter in Australia and that the South African-born cricketer will not be part of their plans any more.

It was a unanimous decision made by the England management which included the selectors too.

Paul Downton said:

“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.

“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 and start to rebuild not only the team but also team ethic and philosophy.

“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.

“This decision brings some clarity now for the future of the England teams and we all wish Kevin the very best in the rest of his career.”

Kevin Pietersen, one of the most captivating cricketers ever to don the England shirt, has played 104 Test Matches, 136 One Day internationals and 37 Twenty20 International matches for England.

Pietersen said:

“Playing cricket for my country has been an honour. 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.”