Pietersen to remain with Surrey until time is called on international career

With the South Africa-born player on an England central contract, which is renewed every 12 months, there is no fixed time span for his spell at The Oval.

However, the new deal announced by Surrey means he will be with the county for as long as he remains an England player.

In a statement, Surrey said: “England batsman Kevin Pietersen has extended his contract with Surrey County Cricket Club until the end of his central contract with England.”

Pietersen, now 31, joined Surrey initially on loan in 2010 after a spell at Hampshire before agreeing a one-year deal for 2011.

He turned out in two first-class and two Twenty20 games as well as becoming captain for a match against Cambridge MCCU in May.

Pietersen said: “Surrey is a fantastic club and I have been really impressed with the environment and work ethic in place.

“Their recent success is well deserved and I look forward to working with them in 2012.”

James Taylor, meanwhile, has told England’s selectors he will bat anywhere if it means he can gain a place in their all-star batting line-up.

The 21-year-old has established himself as one of the most promising young batsmen in domestic ranks in recent seasons, before earning his one-day international debut against Ireland in August.

That match, however, remains his sole appearance in England colours as his international aspirations have been put on hold by one of the best batting units in the world.

Taylor admits he may have to bide his time before he can call himself an England regular but, after completing a protracted move from Leicestershire to Nottinghamshire earlier this month, he believes he is closer to doing so.

“I think at this stage I needed a change in direction in my career,” said Taylor. “It’s a new challenge for me, a new start for my career.

“If I can show that I can prosper in the first division and progress as a batsman then that will help my England chances.

“I’ve told the England selectors that I will be willing to bat anywhere if called upon.”