Pietersen finds role model in Warney

London, June 16 (UNI) Kevin Pietersen believes he is just like his role model Australian leg spinner Shane Warne, who, according to him is ''thoughtful, innovative and never scared of trying something new''.

''He has complete confidence in himself,'' Pietersen told the 'Independent'.

''I don't doubt myself either. I came over here from South Africa to play for Nottinghamshire with no family or friends around me, and I had to back myself through everything,'' he added.

Bracing up for the Ashes challenge later this year, the flamboyant player said he was expecting a tough battle in the series.

''Warney has said to me that it's going to be the biggest occasion in our lives. You can see from the ticket sales that it's going to be massive,'' he said.

The explosive batsman said he did not like being compared to anybody and would rather be known for his individual skills.

''People are saying Viv Richards this, Viv Richards that. But I don't want to be the next Viv Richards, I just want to be Kevin Pietersen, the best Kevin Pietersen can be,'' he said, responding to a query on constant comparisons with the West Indian legend.

Pietersen said he aspired to be one of the best players in the World in the next 10 years and wanted to contribute with the ball as well.

''I've been OK over the last 12 months, but I want to be one of the best players in the world over the next 10 years, maybe do a bit more bowling, and contribute to a successful England team,'' he said.

Unconcerned with the growing media attention on his personal life, Pietersen said he had learnt to live with it and the tabloid frenzy does not affect him any more.

''There's a load of people worrying about Kevin Pietersen. You just have to manage it, tolerate it, go through it. It's become a way of life, and there's no point harping on about negatives. I've got to think of the positives.

''They want to know what clothes I buy, where I eat, what night-clubs I go to, about my girlfriend. It's ridiculous. But it's been OK,'' he added.

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