Pietersen talks up Ashes hopes

Kevin Pietersen says he feels 'brilliant' going into next month's Ashes (England Evs to retain the Ashes) and feels his stint in South Africa has done him the world of good.

The 30-year-old's lack of form with the bat has concerned pundits and supporters alike ahead of the tour to Australia.

Having been dropped for the ODI series with Pakistan, Pietersen (7/1 Top Series Run Scorer) headed to South Africa to play two first-class matches for Kwazulu Natal Dolphins.

Despite scoring just 36 and collecting a second-ball duck, the ex-England skipper feels happier with his game.

Pietersen told BBC London 94.9: "I felt brilliant in South Africa. It was amazing to be out there and I'm full of confidence going to Australia."

The England ace also got the chance to face the Kookaburra ball, which will be used in Australia, and believes the tourists will be 'better prepared' following the whitewash four years ago (Australia 10/11, Draw 11/4, England 9/4 - First Test Betting).

Meanwhile, Brett Lee is the latest cricketer to defend Pietersen and described him as a 'class act' and warned Australia not to 'fire him up'.