Kevin Pietersen joins England as white-ball mentor ahead of 2027 World Cup

Last Updated on 1 minute ago by Charbel Coorey

Kevin Pietersen has returned to the England setup as a “specialist mentor” for the men’s ODI and T20I teams. Pietersen’s appointment comes with the 2027 ODI World Cup in mind, putting an end to 12 years away from English cricket following a controversial end to his career.

“Having grown up in South Africa, Pietersen’s knowledge and understanding will particularly help the One Day International team as it prepares for next year’s World Cup which is being played in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia,” the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said in a statement.

2027 ODI World Cup prep: Kevin Pietersen returns to England setup as specialist mentor for white-ball teams

Pietersen’s role will begin later this month when England take on Sri Lanka in three ODIs and three T20Is. He describes the appointment as a special moment, and is looking forward to working with a team that has significant potential across both white-ball formats.

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

“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 thinktank over the next 12 months is a fantastic opportunity, and I cannot wait to get started.”

England are enjoying a strong run in T20Is. They reached the World Cup semi-final and beat India 4-0 earlier this year.

They have also found form in ODIs, winning their past two series against Sri Lanka (away in January) and India (at home in July).

“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,” said coach Brendon McCullum.

“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.”