05/02/2014
Kevin Pietersen's controversial England career came to a dramatic end after officials announced Tuesday they "unanimously" wanted to rebuild the side without him following their Ashes thrashing in Australia.
In a joint statement with the 33-year-old former England captain, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced they'd left the gifted batsman out of their squads for both the upcoming one-day tour of the West Indies and the World Twenty20 in Bangladesh, signalling the end of his international career.
'A great deal still to give'
"Playing cricket for my country has been an honour," said Pietersen.
"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."
He added: "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."
Newly-appointed ECB managing director Paul Downton, who only recently oversaw the departure of England coach Andy Flower following the Ashes thrashing, hinted the need to restore team harmony, rather than playing ability, had been the key reason behind the "tough decision" to axe Pietersen -- England's leading run-scorer across all formats.