Pietersen resigns, Moores sacked as Strauss steps in
English cricket in chaos as Kevin Pietersen resigns as captain and coach Peter Moores is sacked
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Wednesday, 07, Jan 2009 10:47
Andrew Strauss has been named as the temporary England captain after Kevin Pietersen's resignation and Peter Moores' sacking left English cricket in a state of chaos.
At a hastily-convened press conference at the Oval, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that Pietersen had quit.
The batsman, appointed as a replacement for Michael Vaughan last August, resigned after an "irretrievable breakdown" in the relationship between captain and coach.
A statement from the ECB said Pietersen recognised he would not be able to restore dressing room unity ahead of the imminent Caribbean tour or the Ashes later this year.
Hugh Morris, managing director of England Cricket, said the only solution to the "impossible situation" was for both Pietersen and Moores to go.
"With regard to Peter Moores, the board determined that he should relinquish his role as England team director," Morris said.
"I have the greatest respect for the dignity which Peter Moores has shown in recent days when he has found himself under extreme pressure. The ECB wish him well in his future roles."
Pietersen has already said he will continue to represent England in their forthcoming fixtures.
In a statement prior to the ECB announcement the former captain said his decision came "in light of recent communications with the ECB, and the unfortunate media stories that have subsequently appeared".
"It would be extremely difficult for me to continue in my current position," the 28-year-old added.
Morris also announced that Strauss, who led the England team "with distinction" in 2006 due to injuries to Michael Vaughan, would lead the team to the Caribbean.
"The board will announce the coaching set up for the Caribbean tour as soon as possible and will embark on an immediate search for a coach who can provide England with the best chance of success in the coming years," he added.