Kevin Pietersen's controversial England career came to a dramatic end after officials announced they "unanimously" wanted to rebuild the side without him following their Ashes thrashing in Australia.
In a joint statement yesterday 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'
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"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.
Debt of gratitude
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"Everyone was aware that there was a need to begin the long-term planning after the Australia tour," said Downton. "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," the former England wicket-keeper added.
