"In addition, Pietersen will also play an important role in the publicity and promotion of ESS's broadcast of ICC World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka," the channel said in a statement.

Kevin Pietersen will be seen in a new avatar- that of a commentator. File Pic

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"I am very excited about working with ESPN STAR Sports covering the ICC World Twenty20 watching England defend their title," said Pietersen.

The South African-born English cricketer was left out of the thid Test against South Africa and was also dropped from the World Twenty20 squad after it was revealed that he sent text messages to South African players criticising skipper Andrew Strauss.

While speculation is rife on Pietersen's future with the national team, he has found there is life beyond playing.

Pietersen was ignored for the England team despite being a T20 player of repute after he fell out of favour with the ECB for sending controversial text messages to South African players in which he criticised England captain Andrew Strauss and coach Andy Flower.

Pietersen was player of the tournament at the last edition of ICC World Twenty20 tournament held in West Indies in 2010. "This places him as one of the most suitable persons to give insightful perspective on this iconic T20 tournament, a format in which he has excelled as a player, thus further enhancing coverage of the ICC World Twenty20 for passionate cricket fans," ESS said. u00a0