London, Apr. 16 : New England cricket team coach Andy Flower believes batsman Kevin Pietersen can help England regain The Ashes this year.

The ex-Zimbabwe skipper, 40, insists that the talented but sometimes self-obsessed Pietersen is fundamental to the side’s chances in the busiest summer in their history.

“Kevin is very important to English cricket — he is a very fine player. Kevin and I have always got on pretty well and that hasn’t changed. As to any detail on that, you’ll have to ask Kev,” Flower was quoted, as saying.

Pietersen, who is in South Africa preparing to captain Bangalore Royal Challengers in the IPL, revealed Flower came out of his shell in the Windies.

He said: “Andy Flower is a totally different bloke without Peter Moores around. We smoothed things over and have a great working relationship now. He has the makings of a world-class coach.”

Once Test skipper Andrew Strauss made it clear he wanted Flower to get the top job, his elevation was virtually certain.

Little more than three months ago, Pietersen wanted Flower axed along with coach Peter Moores.

England knew they could not afford another bust-up between captain and coach so the hiring of a head-hunting firm became little more than a show to avoid accusations of a cosy appointment.

England managing director Hugh Morris said: “The ECB believe he has the vision, drive and ambition to be just as successful in his new post as he was as a player. (ANI)