Giles backs Pietersen for big summer

Ashley Giles has backed Kevin Pietersen to play a key role in England’s one-day matches this summer. While much of the focus has been surrounding this year’s back-to-back Ashes series’, England will also be well aware of their tough looking limited-overs schedule that includes the Champions Trophy as well as home T20 and ODI series against New Zealand and Australia.

The former spin bowler took over from Andy Flower as England’s limited overs coach before the India tour at the end of last year. Most betting news writers believe Pietersen’s form could be decisive in England’s quest to get try and put together a winning run in all formats of the game this summer.

Giles, who played with Pietersen in England’s 2005 and 2006/07 Ashes campaigns, has admitted his close relationship with his former team-mate could help get the best out of the batsman.

“Kevin is an incredible player,” he told cricket betting news reporters. “He’s got a great record and is an important part of the setup. I think it’s advantageous because I know him very well, so hopefully I know what makes him tick and he respects me.”

“But there is always a line there. Once you develop into new roles, different roles, you have different responsibilities and so does Kevin. He has as big a responsibility as I do to make sure that we get it right for the team,” added Giles.

While there are a number of exciting young batsmen coming through the England ranks, Pietersen is still one of the most important members of the one-day and T20 line-ups. England’s 50-over form has been extremely patchy of late and there is no doubt that Pietersen’s inclusion will be essential to the hosts’ chances in June’s Champions Trophy.

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