Former Kwazulu-Natal head denies Pietersen's claims

Rob Kurz, the former head of the Kwazulu-Natal Cricket Union, has denied claims that Kevin Pietersen, the England batsman, was forced out of South African cricket. Kurz's reaction came in response to Pietersen's claim that he left South Africa because of racial quotas, one that was criticised by the South African board.

"They [Pietersen and his father] sought assurances over whether we could guarantee him a place in the team," Kurz told The Mercury. "I was very up front with them. I said no player could be guaranteed a place. I wished him luck if that was his decision, but I emphasised that if he was good enough his progress would not be hindered and that he would play for Natal."

Pietersen whose mother is South Africa, left the country in 2000 to join Nottinghamshire and made his England debut after serving a four-year qualifying period.

Kurz added that he offered Pietersen financial assistance for education and cricket coaching as well as a junior contract with the province for the 2000-01 season.

"Good luck to Pietersen, it's worked out brilliantly for him in England," he said. "But the fact of the matter is that we never rejected him. In fact, it was the opposite."