KP offered Colly backing
Nov 28 2009 - 12:25:54
England's star batsman Kevin Pietersen has been backed by team-mate Paul Collingwood to start hitting top form in the very near future.
The 29-year-old only recently returned to action after a long-term absence due to an Achilles injury and is back in the England side currently battling out a one-day series in South Africa.
Pietersen made 45 in the crushing third ODI loss in Cape Town, a knock which impressed the watching Collingwood at the other end.
He said afterwards: "If you think of the lay-off he's had I don't think you'd expect him to come in and score hundreds straight away.
"It's fair to say that there are some of the shots he's playing, with the old Kevin Pietersen there. It's not going to be too long before he's making a massive contribution, just like he used to.
"He's not going to hit his straps 100 per cent straight away, but he's certainly showing signs that he's got a big innings round the corner.
"As soon as he makes that big innings, the old flamboyant KP will be back - because he's certainly not far away.
"So far, he's looked pretty solid without having that major innings, but he's that kind of world-class player who will be clicking soon.
"Just having his presence in the batting line-up is the crucial thing. It gives the rest of the lads a lot of confidence."