Opener Pietersen no threat to Dutch?

Updated on: 22 February,2011 06:50 AM IST |
Correspondent |

Dutch captain Peter Borren played down Kevin Pietersen's new role at the top of England's order to promote his own team's World Cup opening pair

Dutch captain Peter Borren played down Kevin Pietersen's new role at the top of England's order to promote his own team's World Cup opening pair.

While much of the talk in the build-up to today's clash has centered around England's decision to promote Pietersen to partner captain Andrew Strauss, Borren said his two openers were worth watching.

"I'm looking out for Alexei Kervezee, a young opening batsman who plays at Worcestershire. He's only 21 but playing in his second World Cup which is pretty impressive," said Borren.

"The other opening batsman Wesley Barresi is not necessarily a well-known player but is someone who I think can handle this level of cricket: not only handle it, but also do very, very well."

As for Pietersen opening, a bullish Borren said: "It's a change from England and for Pietersen himself. We're well aware what he's capable of and aware he's not done that job all that much so hopefully that gives us an opportunity.

"We've got full respect for him but not only him but the other batsmen in the England lineup and obviously their bowling and fielding as well."