Pietersen move threatens Moores

The future of Peter Moores, the England coach, looked uncertain last night after it emerged that Kevin Pietersen, his captain, has asked for crisis talks with the England and Wales Cricket Board over the former Sussex man's role. The move suggests that Pietersen believes his relationship with Moores is at a breaking point, just four months after the South African-born player took up leadership of the side.

Pietersen is currently on holiday in Africa but he will meet Giles Clarke, the ECB chairman, on his return early this month. The Hampshire man is absolutely key to England's future plans – he is both their captain and best batsman – and it is not inconceivable that Moores may be forced out.

The timing – some three weeks before England depart for a tour of the West Indies and as an Ashes year dawns – is not perfect but Pietersen felt he had to act after Michael Vaughan was not included in the side for the Caribbean, as he had wished.