• Caribbean Premier League

Pietersen set to join Gayle in CPL

Kevin Pietersen will captain the Delhi Devils in the IPL before he plays in the CPL © AFP

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Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen insists he cannot wait to play in the Caribbean Premier League after it was confirmed he has entered the draft for the Twenty20 tournament.

Pietersen will be one of over 200 players auctioned in the draft, which takes place in a Jamaican bar owned by West Indies big-hitter Chris Gayle, on Thursday.

Pietersen, who was told he was no longer part of the national team's plans following England's disastrous winter tour of Australia, could not help but tweet Gayle asking if they would be playing in the CPL as team-mates or rivals.

Delighted to enter the Draft for @CPL_T20 next week. Will we be rivals or teammates, @henrygayle?

— Kevin Pietersen (@KP24) March 28, 2014

"As soon as I was approached, I knew it [the CPL] was something I wanted to take part in," Pietersen said.

"I have fantastic memories of playing T20 cricket in the Caribbean - especially when England won the 2010 ICC World T20 tournament.

"I can't wait to play in front of the magnificent Caribbean fans who create a truly unique and thrilling atmosphere."

Gayle, who recently stated he believed England had disrespected Pietersen, responded with a welcome of his own:

Yessss! Sweet Azz Bro! Welcome!!! RT @CPL_T20: Welcome to the CPL, @KP24. Who do you think will be hitting more sixes, you or @henrygayle?

— Chris Gayle (@henrygayle) March 28, 2014

CPL chief executive Damien O'Donohoe also issued his delight via the social networking site:

We are absolutely delighted and honoured to sign @KP24 for @CPL_T20 II. He is a born entertainer and a firm favourite in the Caribbean.

— Damien O'Donohoe (@daimo1) March 28, 2014

The CPL takes place over July and August, after the Indian Premier League, in which Pietersen will captain the Delhi Devils.

The IPL starts on April 16 and lasts until June, while it is reported Pietersen activated a secondment agreement in his contract with Surrey so he could take part in the Caribbean. However, Pietersen moved to clarify that he will fulfil all of his commitments with the county side.

I will be fulfilling ALL my @surreycricket commitments and just flying into the Caribbean to honour this opportunity...

— Kevin Pietersen (@KP24) March 28, 2014

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