Kevin Pietersen, the former cricket captain of England who is widely regarded as their best batsman, has been forced to retire from the remaining three Ashes 2009 test matches after surgery on his achilles injury.
England, who won the second test at Lord’s, after escaping Cardiff with a draw, currently lead the nPower Ashes series 1-0.
The loss of Pietersen is a blow for the hosts, however, the charismatic player has been below his best while carrying this injury.
Ian Bell showed form scoring a first class century last week for Warwickshire while his compatriots were registering their historic Ashes victory. Bell is widely tipped to regain his place in the England team now that Pietersen’s absence is confirmed.