Cricket board 'unanimously agree' to end Kevin Pietersen's England career

Pietersen took to Instagram and said: "So sad that this will now be the last time I leave a field in an England shirt.

14:38 05 February 2014

Following reports of Kevin Pietersen and England captain Alastair Cook’s “confrontation” in the pavilion at Sydney, it has now emerged that Pietersen’s international career has ended. 

 

He finishes his successful but controversial career as England’s all-time leading run scorer across all formats. 

 

On Wednesday, Pietersen confirmed the news through Instagram. Posting a picture of his final Test in Sydney, he wrote: "So sad that this will now be the last time I leave a field in an England shirt... Incredibly overwhelmed by the support overnight! Thank you so much..."

 

In a statement, he added: "Playing cricket for my country has been an honour. Every time I pulled on the England shirt was a moment of huge pride for me and that is something that will live with me forever.

 

"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.

 

"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."