• Specialist mentor signed lucrative deal with online firm

• Board’s strict code prohibits betting across cricket

Kevin Pietersen has told the England and Wales Cricket Board he will not promote betting while on duty as England’s specialist mentor. Pietersen signed a lucrative contract as a brand ambassador for an online gambling company this week.

The former England batter is contracted to work with Brendon McCullum’s white-ball team for around 150 days over the next 13 months until the conclusion of the 50-over World Cup co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Pietersen’s betting ­interests create a potential headache for his employers.