Andy Flower believes there will be a positive outcome to Kevin Pietersen's international future
Andy Flower revealed that a press conference has been scheduled regarding the international future of Kevin Pietersen.
Last Updated: 03/10/12 5:21pm
Pietersen has not played for England since the second Investec Test against South Africa in August after a storm over his text messages to South Africa players which allegedly contained "derogatory" references to then England captain Andrew Strauss.
That saw him miss out on their failed World Twenty20 title defence, the upcoming tour of India and a central contract for the new season, but Flower is optimistic an agreement has finally been reached.
"The situation is ongoing. I think it's nearing an end now - in a positive way, I hope," he said.
"There's been a lot of formal communication between the ECB and Kevin, and there will be a press conference I would imagine in the next 36 hours which will enlighten you a little further."
The expectation of an imminent reconciliation has even led to speculation Pietersen could be added to the party travelling to India later this month.
Flower did not rule out such an eventuality but would not be drawn on the specific details of Pietersen's likely return.
"We don't close doors to anyone," he said. "If we get over that first stage first and get some of the formal legal proceedings out of the way, then we'll get on to the cricket thereafter."
Missed
Flower does not seek to dispute the fact England might have fared better in Sri Lanka with Pietersen in the team, but advises against lazy conclusions on that score.
"We definitely missed him ... it would have helped our batting side to have him," said Flower.
"But I think when you lose it's easy to look outside the group and say 'Well, those guys would have done better'.
"You don't know that for sure."