(CNN) -- English cricketer Kevin Pietersen has reached an agreement with the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) which paves the way for his return to the national team. Arguably England's most naturally talented cricketer, Pietersen was dropped by selectors in August after it emerged he had sent "provocative" text messages to South Africa's players during a recent Test series between the two teams. However the South-African born Pietersen must undergo a "reintegration program", before England team director Andy Flower can pick him. "ECB and Kevin Pietersen confirm that agreement has been reached concerning a process for his reintegration into the England team during the remainder of 2012," said an ECB statement.
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Kevin Pietersen agrees return to the England cricket team
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The South African-born batsman frozen out after sending provocative text messages
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Pietersen has signed a new central contract and will begin a "re-integration" process
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The batsman could return to the team in time for February's tour of New Zealand
"Upon completion of the program, the England selectors will consider @placeholder for future matches."