England v Pakistan news: Kevin Pietersen struggling for form

09/03/2010

Corporate hospitality guests enjoying this summer's England v Pakistan Test series may not get to see Kevin Pietersen in action after his dismal run with the bat continued in Bangladesh.

The big-hitting batsman was dismissed for just 20 in the second innings of England's drawn game against Bangladesh A, having scored only two in the first innings.

Pietersen also struggled for runs in the recent one-day series, although he made several important contributions in the field, and will now be sweating on his future in the Test team.

Although the 29-year-old looks certain to retain his place for the forthcoming Test series in Bangladesh, as the selectors give him an opportunity to rediscover his best form following a lengthy injury lay-off, further failures could put his position in jeopardy.

One man who used the match against Bangladesh A to further his claims for a place in the Test team is uncapped spinner James Tredwell.

The Kent bowler took eight wickets in the game to suggest he could form a useful spin partnership with Graeme Swann, both in Bangladesh and on the traditionally spin-friendly wicket at the Brit Oval, where the third Test in the England v Pakistan series will take place in August.

Posted by Oliver Jakes