The batsman was dropped for sending “provocative” text messages to South African players during the summer Test series.

With the ECB satisfied no tactical information was conveyed and Pietersen issuing further apologies, the 32-year-old signed a four-month central contract on Wednesday paving the way for his “reintegration”.

Pietersen said: “It’s been a horrible situation for all involved, but it is time to move forward. All being well I’ll be back in an England shirt as soon as possible.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to apologise to my team-mates, all England supporters and the ECB for the situation that has arisen over the last two months.”

ECB managing director Giles Clarke stated coach Andy Flower had directed the proceedings behind the player’s return and would determine the timescale for his reintegration and whether Pietersen’s contract would be extended until September.

Clarke added: “We would not be entering into this process if the England team director, England team management and everyone at the ECB was not as fully committed to this process as Kevin is.”

Pietersen’s comeback could be the four Tests in India – starting 15 November – but more likely is the five one dayers in India in January.

“I am committed to completing the re-integration process we have agreed over the coming weeks and resuming my England career in all formats, hopefully until the World Cup in 2015, as long as my body allows,” Pietersen added.

“I want my son growing up seeing me playing for England and I hope one day he will put an England shirt on himself.”