On this day in 2008: Kevin Pietersen named England Test and one-day captain

The South Africa-born batter made a bright start but lasted just five months in the roles.

Published Aug 4, 2022

Kevin Pietersen was named as England’s new Test and one-day captain on this day in 2008.

The 28-year-old Hampshire batter had been regarded as favourite for the two roles after Michael Vaughan and Paul Collingwood stood down from their positions the previous day.

Pietersen took charge in the middle of a series against South Africa, as one of the only players who was guaranteed a place in both red and white-ball squads.

Cricket – England Press Conference – Lord’s Cricket Ground — Pietersen, centre, alongside national selector Geoff Miller and managing director of England cricket Hugh Morris, at his unveiling press conference at Lord’s (Carl Court/PA)

A first one-day series as captain followed immediately after the fourth Test and England ran out 4-0 winners, but the honeymoon period did not last for long as the team started to slide.

Pietersen led England for only three Tests and quit before he was forced out just over five months after his appointment.

Cricket – Fourth One Day International – India v England – M Chinnaswamy Stadium — The ECB admitted there had been an “irretrievable breakdown” in the relationship between coach Peter Moores, left, and Pietersen (Anthony Devlin/PA)

Andrew Strauss took over the captaincy and led England to a memorable Ashes victory in Australia in 2010-11 and top spot in the world rankings.

Pietersen carried on in a playing role internationally until February 2014, when England’s management unanimously decided that their relationship with the then 33-year-old had run its course.