Kevin Pietersen has been appointed as a specialist mentor of the England men's white-ball teams, bringing an extensive amount of experience to the side. Pietersen, who will join England’s coaching staff being led by Brendon McCullum, will link up with the team ahead of the T20I and ODI assignments against Sri Lanka later this month. The coaching group also includes Marcus Trescothick, Tim Southee, Jeetan Patel and Sarah Taylor.

“I am immensely proud to have been asked to help this team on their journey to win a World Cup in South Africa. Putting on the England uniform again for the first time since 2014 is a profound honour and a deeply special moment,” Pietersen said in a statement released by the ECB. 

“We have an incredibly talented white-ball squad, and I am excited to get in the trenches and work relentlessly hard with these players to maximise their potential. To be a part of Brendon’s think tank over the next 12 months is a fantastic opportunity, and I cannot wait to get started.”

England’s white-ball head coach Brendon McCullum lauded Pietersen’s appointment, highlighting the invaluable experience he carries. 

“I’ve got immense respect for KP and what he’s achieved in the game. He’s had an amazing impact on English cricket, so for someone with his experience, knowledge and stature to want to play a role with this team is a fantastic result.

“I’m particularly excited for our batters to get the opportunity to work with him. KP has a unique understanding of what it takes to perform at the highest level, which will be hugely valuable to our players. We’ve always respected each other and had a strong appreciation for what the other brings to the game, so I’m really looking forward to working together.”

Pietersen will also be with the team during the white-ball tours to Australia and South Africa. Following which he will once again be involved with the team for the home series against Pakistan and New Zealand, as well as the 2027 ODI World Cup to be played in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.