Comparisons have been drawn between the unconventional but bold batting styles of Pietersen and Richards, who racked up a phenomenal 8,540 runs in a 121-test career.

Richards ranks Pietersen among the top players in test cricket today, but has advised the 25-year-old to let his bat, rather than his mouth, do the talking. Richards said:

"Pietersen is really exciting, and that sort of player gets people through the turnstiles.

For people to compare him to me is great to hear.

"In the future, he needs to keep on being as positive as he is. I'd also say to him, just chill out a bit, and have a bit less of the talk. This game has a way of kicking you big time when you least expect it.

"He is still young, he still has enough time to have doubts about himself and fail at some things, but he has the ability and time to accomplish things as well. Confidence is very important but it can be knocked out of you."