Kevin Pietersen "shocked" by England rift talk

Kevin Pietersen has expressed his astonishment at reports suggesting that he and team director Andy Flower were part of a rift in the England dressing room.

With Pietersen having recently ruled out retirement and indicated his desire to win back The Ashes in 2015 following their 5-0 whitewash in Australia, rumours circulated that Flower had told the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) that he would quit his role should the 33-year-old batsman stay true to his word during the rebuilding process.

"I am shocked and saddened by reports in the media today concerning my future with England," Pietersen wrote on Twitter.

"I wish to repeat my strong desire to continue playing for my country, and to help us regain The Ashes in 2015."

Pietersen scored 294 runs at an average of 29.40 during the five tests.