London, Oct 3: England batsman Kevin Pietersen has publicly apologised for his conduct and signed a four-month contract with the ECB. Pietersen may be selected for the India tour, sources said.
The four-Test series with India begins on Oct 25.An ECB statement said: "ECB and Kevin Pietersen confirm that agreement has been reached concerning a process for his re-integration into the England team during the remainder of 2012. Upon completion of the programme, the England Selectors will consider Kevin for future matches."
The statement further said: "Kevin Pietersen has apologised to Andrew Strauss and wishes to express to all those who support England his regrets at the impact the recent controversies have had on the England Team.
"He now wishes to put the events of the summer behind him and to focus on regaining his place in the England Team.
"With regards the issue of the BBM messages, due to the fact that Kevin had not retained the BBM messages, this matter has been successfully concluded through a binding assurance provided to ECB by Kevin.
"Kevin conceded that the messages exchanged were provocative. ECB is satisfied, following receipt of this binding assurance, that to the best of his recollection, Kevin did not convey any messages which were derogatory about the England Captain, the England Team Director, the ECB or employees of the ECB.
"Furthermore, there was no tactical information whatsoever provided to members of the South African Touring Party."
Pietersen appeared to be optimistic about the India tour: "I hope so. I want to play for England as soon as I can. It's been a horrible situation for all involved. I am happy we are moving forward for a better result, I hope, for England cricket.
"The process has started really well and I believe that, all being well, I'll be back in an England shirt as soon as possible."
Andy Flower, England's team manager, will now oversee what is described as a "period of reintegration". Provided that passes without incident, Pietersen will be offered a full central contract.
Pietersen has not played for England since making 149 in the second 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.
