Shadow of Kevin Pietersen hangs over England team as 12 man squad named for New Zealand test

LONDON _(AP) The shadow of Kevin Pietersen continued to hang over England’s cricket team as a 12-man squad containing uncapped pair Adam Lyth and Mark Wood was selected for the first test against New Zealand.

The first squad announcement since the firing of coach Peter Moores consisted entirely of players who recently toured the West Indies.

Opener Lyth and paceman Wood did not play any of the three tests in the Caribbean, but both could make their debuts at Lord’s next week. Lyth is sure to be captain Alastair Cook’s opening partner following the retirement of Jonathan Trott.

Pietersen missed out as expected after being told by England’s new director of cricket, Andrew Strauss, that he doesn’t feature in England’s immediate plans.

However, Ian Bell became the first England player to speak out regarding Pietersen, saying on Thursday his fellow batsman would “make any team stronger.”