England mentor Kevin Pietersen asked to 'challenge' coach Brendon McCullum

England white-ball head coach Brendon McCullum has asked newly appointed mentor Kevin Pietersen to challenge the team’s setup and speak up with ideas that could help improve the side.

Pietersen was appointed last week and joined England’s coaching staff ahead of the T20 series against Sri Lanka. His role will continue through a busy period that includes next year’s one-day international World Cup.

“He’s obviously got an incredible pedigree as a player and a lot of guys grew up idolising Kev. He’s brought a ton of energy to the setup within the last 24 hours,” McCullum told reporters on Monday.

McCullum said he did not want Pietersen to focus on one particular area and instead encouraged him to look at the wider setup and question the team’s methods.

“I’ve mentioned to him that I don’t want him to be buried in one specific skillset. I want him to look across the environment and challenge me privately around ways we can improve or things we can do differently.”

McCullum was sacked as England’s Test coach in July, with his tenure affected by off-field controversies involving players including Ben Stokes, Harry Brook and Gus Atkinson.

Fast bowler Brydon Carse was then left out of England’s Test squad during their recent 3-0 series win over Pakistan following an incident outside a nightclub.

McCullum has now said players will have to maintain professional standards if they want to be selected for England.

“There is a lot of talent around – if you’re not prepared to do that, there are other guys who will be given those opportunities,” he added.

“As far as Carsey is concerned, it’s important for Carsey he gets his house in order. We know he’s an excellent cricketer who has done well when he’s played for England.”

England will host Sri Lanka in a three-match T20 series beginning later on Tuesday before the teams meet in three ODIs.