Pietersen defends Warne

Kevin Pietersen, England batsman, Hampshire teammate and good friend of Shane Warne, says the Australian is being targeted by the media and does not get the respect he deserves.

ABC Sport quoted Pietersen as saying, "I think he does get treated far too harshly for what he deserves. He's the best player that's ever played the game."

Pietersen was referring to the attention the tabloid press has paid to Warne's often tumultuous private life. Warne separated from his wife earlier this year after tabloids reported on his alleged indiscretions.

Pietersen, himself no stranger to tabloid attention, added, "It is ridiculous because you can't defend yourself and that's the thing. Much [of] the rubbish that's written about you, there's nothing you can do about it."

Pietersen is currently in Melbourne to play for the World XI in the one-day Super Series against Australia.