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Pietersen apologises to Strauss

Andrew Strauss is no longer England captain © Getty Images

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Former England captain Andrew Strauss has revealed he and Kevin Pietersen have met in person to bury the hatchet.

Pietersen is currently ostracised from the England set-up after admitting to sending derogatory messages about Strauss to members of the South Africa squad, during the summer Test series between the two countries.

In the aftermath of the saga becoming public knowledge Strauss admitted that issues of "mutual respect and trust" needed to be resolved before Pietersen could return to the national setup.

And, while Strauss is now retired from cricket, he admitted that the pair have spoken face-to-face and cleared up their own differences.

"We did catch up. It was important we did," Strauss said. "He and I have had interesting times over the last month or two and it was great to sit down with him.

"He apologised for a few things he had done. We've been through a lot together and had shared experiences. We're fine going forward."

Strauss has been succeeded by Alastair Cook as England Test captain. Cook insisted on Thursday that there remains a route back to the Test team for the mercurial South African-born batsman.

However, he conceded talks between Pietersen, Cook and the ECB hierarchy had not gone as well as those with Strauss.

"He is a world-class player and not playing for England. That is sad," Cook said of Pietersen. "I had a meeting with Kev and was involved with other meetings. Clearly issues haven't been resolved and that's why he hasn't been made available for selection at the moment.

"When and if the issues get resolved, hopefully he can come back and play for England."

Cook added: "Kevin has proved in all conditions a world-class player. He will be missed but it gives another person an opportunity."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.