England maverick Kevin Pietersen ‘flattered’ by former Australian skipper Steve Waugh’s criticism

Kevin Pietersen admitted to being “flattered” at the interest shown in him by Steve Waugh after the Australia great told England to steer clear of giving the controversial batsman a test recall.

Waugh, one of the outstanding batsmen of his generation, said Pietersen “may have been a great player but I wouldn’t class him as one now”.

However, Pietersen refused to engage in a war of words with the former Australia captain, telling his Twitter followers: “I grew up idolising guys like Steve Waugh, so for him to be even commenting on my situation is quite flattering. He’s a legend! Love him!”

South Africa-born batsman Pietersen has not played for England since being axed last year following the team’s 5-0 Ashes thrashing in Australia.

But the 34-year-old has repeatedly insisted he wants to regain his place in the England set-up.

Paul Downton, who as England and Wales Cricket Board managing director played a key role in sending Pietersen into the international wilderness, was recently forced out of his position by new chiefs at Lord’s.