Balance the key for Pietersen, says coach
Peter Moores speaks on what he thinks will help Pietersen prevent fatigue and extend his career
Cricinfo staff
18-Jul-2007
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Pietersen recently complained of feeling mentally fatigued after taking part in most of England's matches since his debut in 2005, and had called for more time off for England's players. He also had a poor run in England's 2-1 NatWest Series loss against West Indies, scoring 42 runs at an average of 14 in three ODIs, a performance which caused him to lose his No.1 ranking in the ICC ODI ratings.
"After seeing him this morning he seems okay to me," Moores told AFP, ahead of the first Test against India at Lord's. "In my brief time here he's never not been up for the game, he's very intense, a really hard worker and he loves playing the game. I think he does know what he does is a privileged thing, to play for England."
There have been suggestions that Pietersen cut down on his number of endorsements to ensure he is fit and fresh to play cricket. Pietersen has denied that his off-field activities have in any way affected his cricket, but Moores indicated that the board was constantly reviewing the non-cricket activities for the players to make sure they don't become a hindrance to the team.
"It's something we'll continually look at, to get the balance right for the player. It's a fine line. They are in demand because they are in the public eye but we need players who are fresh to play cricket for England. We talk to the commercial guys to make sure we get the balance right."
Pietersen, 27, is due to wed his pop star fiancee Jessica Taylor in December. He has deals for equipment endorsement, a national newspaper column, and various other agreements including one with a watch manufacturer.