England batsman Kevin Pietersen has been ruled out of the two-test home series against New Zealand in May as he struggles to overcome a right knee injury.
The England and Wales Cricket Board says on Tuesday that Pietersen “will have a repeat scan next week to determine when he is able to resume training.”
Pietersen, who bruised bones in his knee in March during England’s tour of New Zealand, was initially ruled out for six to eight weeks, making him a doubt for the home series against the same opposition.
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The latest prognosis raises questions about his availability for the Champions Trophy, which begins on June 6, and potentially the Ashes series against Australia starting on July 10.
England’s first test against New Zealand begins on May 16 at Lord’s.