Pietersen rules out one-day captaincy

Kevin Pietersen was regarded less likely to get the job than either Paul Collingwood, the favourite, or Andrew Strauss.

Kevin Pietersen on Thursday ruled himself out of the running to be England's new one-day captain following Michael Vaughan's decision to concentrate on his Test role.

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South African-born Pietersen had been backed for the role by pundits including Geoffrey Boycott but was regarded as less likely to be given the job than either Paul Collingwood, the favourite, or Andrew Strauss.

Pietersen said in a statement that he did not feel ready to take on the additional responsibility involved in captaining his adopted country.

"At this stage in my career I don't think it is the right time for me," he said. "I thought about it long and hard but right now I am happy playing and supporting the team like that."

"I would be humbled in the future to be given the opportunity to captain my country but right now I don't think it is the right time for me."

"Whoever gets the job (when the team is announced) tomorrow (Friday) will get my full support. It is a new era now with a new coaching staff and a good time for England to move forward."