13 Aug 2012

Petersen dropped from England test squad

10:01 am on 13 August 2012

Controversial batsman Kevin Pietersen has been dropped from the England cricket squad for the third and final test against South Africa amid speculation of dressing room tensions with his team mates.

Pietersen was left out because he failed to confirm he did not send derogatory text messages about team mates to the opposition.

The future of Pietersen, who hit a century in the drawn second test at Headingley, had been under a cloud since he raised the possibility of quitting England with comments at the conclusion of the match.

Pietersen has been replaced by Jonny Bairstow.

England, who lost the first test by an innings and 12 runs, must win to tie the series 1-1 and retain their place at the top of the test rankings.

The third test starts on Friday.