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Pietersen still dreaming of Indian Premier League millions

17/04/2008

Kevin Pietersen insists he does not regret publicly stating that England players should be allowed to take part in the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL).

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) banned all England's centrally contracted players, including Pietersen, from competing in the IPL, which kicks off on Friday.

But Pietersen urged the ECB to open up a gap in the calendar which would allow its players to play in the IPL.

Pietersen said it was "silly to think that you're losing up to a million [dollars] over six weeks" and "there are guys in our team who could be earning a lot of money".

Pietersen's comments have led to some people questioning his commitment to England, but the 27-year-old said: "I don't see anything wrong with saying we want to go and play and earn that kind of money.

"People who nail us for it are not going to pay for my child's school fees in 15 years' time. You have to look after yourself because you are not going to be playing cricket when you are 50 or 60.

"To be offered the kind of money I have been offered, it is ridiculous for someone to abuse you about it.

"It is like winning the lottery and anybody in their right mind would go for it. It's not even a question - if you can do it, you do it."

While some of he biggest names in the game will be taking part in the IPL, Pietersen will be preparing himself for summer Test series' against New Zealand and the country of his birth, South Africa.