'Just need to clear something up': Pietersen on why he didn't travel to Pakistan

Kevin Pietersen (Image credit: X)

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has explained why he was absent from England latest white-ball assignment in Pakistan, clarifying that his role with the national team is that of a consultant rather than a full-time employee.His absence had attracted attention after he was spotted in Delhi attending the India Championship golf tournament while England were playing in Pakistan.Pietersen, who joined England's white-ball coaching setup earlier this year as a specialist mentor, said his responsibilities do not require him to travel with the team for every series or tournament.

Taking to X on Saturday, Pietersen addressed the questions surrounding his absence and explained his position within the England setup.“Just need to clear something up once and for all. I am a consultant to the England Cricket Team," Pietersen tweeted on Saturday afternoon.He also clarified that he is not a permanent employee of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and will not accompany the team on every assignment over the coming year.

Pietersen's mentoring stint until 2027 ODI World Cup

Pietersen was appointed as a mentor for England's white-ball teams, with his contract running until the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

He is part of a coaching group that includes Marcus Trescothick, Tim Southee, Jeetan Patel and Sarah Taylor, with Brendon McCullum serving as the white-ball head coach.The former England batter returned to the national setup around 12 years after his international career ended following the 2013-14 Ashes series. His first assignment as a mentor came during England's white-ball series against Sri Lanka earlier this year.