Pietersen, 30, was named man of the match after scoring 227 in England's win in the second Test which gives them a 1-0 lead in the Ashes series.

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Another commanding performance with the bat on Friday would put the tourists on course to secure the victory that would give them a 2-0 series lead and ensure they retain the Ashes with two Tests remaining.

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The Rt Hon Lord Bonomy will lead the inquiry into policies for handling ashes and cremated remains, which will result in new legislation.

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Bell is favourite to take Pietersen's place in the England side for the third Ashes Test at Edgbaston, with the hosts holding a 1-0 lead over Australia.

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Australia recovered from a disappointing Ashes to draw the Twenty20 series against England before taking an unassailable 4-1 lead in the teams' one-day meetings with a 51-run win in Brisbane on Sunday.

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