KP not included in World T20 probables

English batsman, Kevin Pietersen, has been dropped from the 30-man provisional squad for the upcoming ICC World T20 2012. Pietersen made himself available for the tournament after announcing retirement from limited overs cricket but he isn’t selected. This move by ECB has put shutters on KP’s comeback in limited overs cricket. Pietersen was man of the tournament in T20 World Cup 2010 and expressed his desire to defend the trophy for his team this year.

Under the terms of England central contracts, a player cannot be considered for one format of the limited-overs game unless they are available for both. While Pietersen’s comments suggest he is prepared to play all formats, the England management still con. sider him ‘retired’ as he remains reluctant to commit to the team’s full schedule.

Andy Flower said that KP’s representatives were in talks with ECB by saying that situation had not changed, so KP’s return was unlikely. Flower seems to be quite impressed by Hales, who scored 99 against West Indies, so that’s why he is not talking about Pietersen much. The final squad will be announced by 18 August.

Many youngsters were given place in the 30-man provisional squad. These include the impressive James Taylor, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes and Gareth Batty. England ODI captain, Alastair Cook, has also been included in the probables while Ian Bell, who is thought to be KP’s replacement, also gets an inclusion. Left-handed opener Micheal Lumb, who opened for England in the last edition of T20 World Cup is also selected while Test wicket-keeper, Matt Prior, is also there along with Craig Kieswetter.

England will surely miss KP’s services in the tournament as they would be defending their title after being crowned the 2010 edition champions. Therefore, everyone will miss the stylish KP in the tournament.