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Kevin Pietersen is not bigger than England team

Dunya News

Alec Stewart says Kevin Pietersen is a world-class player but not bigger than England.

Some of his batting touches are genius, with the latest example of his wonderful talent coming in the shape of the magnificent 149 for England in the second Test against South Africa.Ever since he burst on to the scene in 2005 with three one-day international hundreds against South Africa, the country of his birth, he has been in the headlines.Sometimes this is for his achievements on the pitch, like his century against Australia at The Oval in 2005 that sealed England the Ashes after a 19-year wait, while on other occasions it can be for controversy off the pitch.The row between him and England coach Peter Moores that ended Pietersens short reign as captain is one example that springs to mind.Stewart on England-South AfricaIts a real shame that the weather played such a huge part in the drawn second Test because Im certain there would have been a positive result.We did have a more exciting final day than we thought we might, but the draw means that South Africa head to Lords for the final Test with the advantage. However, there is still everything to play for and, with the Olympics over by then, the eyes of the sporting world will be back on the cricket again.Following his comments after the Headingley Test, Im very disappointed and sad that we are discussing Pietersens Test future, rather than marvelling at what was a brilliant innings.I do not know the ins and outs of the discussions between Pietersen and the England and Wales Cricket Board that have created this furore, so I do not know if this is a situation created by Kevin, or one that is beyond his control.There are obviously contractual issues, issues that are proving difficult to resolve. Id like to think that all parties involved are striving to find common ground, but it is imperative that the ECB remains in full control of all its contracted players.Having said that, it must be remembered that playing for England is Pietersens job and he has to be able to enjoy going to work. If a situation has arisen where he is unable to do that, then he has every right to review it.From hearing his comments on Monday, one thing that did leap out was when Pietersen said there are points he wants to sort out in the dressing room. What is he referring to?As an outsider looking in, it seems like a very closely knit England team, with a good spirit. Is Pietersen saying he has issues with players and management? I dont know.