England have confirmed that they will be without batsman Kevin Pietersen for their Test series against New Zealand as he continues to recover from a knee injury.

There were reports that the 32-year-old would be declared unfit for the contest due to his injury, which forced him to miss the final match of the away series against the Black Caps last month.

A statement on the England and Wales Cricket Board's official website said: "Kevin Pietersen has been ruled out of the upcoming Investec Test series against New Zealand as he continues his recovery from significant bone bruising to his right knee. Pietersen will have a repeat scan next week to determine when he is able to resume training."

Pietersen, who will also be unable to compete in the Indian Premier League with the Delhi Daredevils, will be fighting to be fit for this summer's Ashes series.