Pietersen: Strauss was right to drop me

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Pietersen and Strauss

Pietersen has not played for England since the 5-0 drubbing suffered in the 2013-14 series on Australian soil.

In that time, English cricket has seen two coaching changes, as well as former captain Strauss assuming responsibility for the running of the national side.

Reports had suggested that Strauss would allow Pietersen to return to the fold, despite stinging criticism aimed at the previous England regime in his autobiography, but the 35-year-old has been told he is not required.

Under Trevor Bayliss, who replaced Peter Moores after a woeful World Cup campaign, England won a fourth-consecutive home Ashes – something their record run-scorer across all formats was happy to enjoy as a spectator.

Pietersen said of Strauss: "It seems to be the right decision at the moment and good luck to him.

"He's done OK. Some of the stuff he has done with the England team and with getting past players back in the dressing room is brilliant."

When asked if the door was closed on his England career, Pietersen replied: "If it is, it is. I'm not sitting here worrying about what has happened. I'm living my life.

"I went there (to a meeting with Strauss) with a lot of positivity and left with quite a bit of negativity. 

"He had a decision to make and he made his decision and it turned out absolutely fine. 

"At the time I thought it was ridiculous, it was nonsense to leave me out. I might have said something stronger to him. 

"But I am buzzing that England won and I am not looking back to the meeting in May thinking, 'Oh goodness, things could have been so different.'

"I am pretty cool about it."

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