The Ashes 2013: Pietersen remains hopeful for third Test

London, July 27 (IANS): England batsman Kevin Pietersen is hopeful to play the third Ashes Test against Australia starting Aug 1 at Old Trafford.

Pietersen sustained a calf injury in the second Test and missed the second innings for the hosts.

England took a 2-0 lead by winning the second Test by 347.

The England selectors will announce the squad Sunday and if they name an extra batsman, Pietersen is likely to miss the third Test, reports the Telegraph.

Pietersen who will have to prove his fitness till Wednesday morning, will look to recover in time to play at the Old Trafford, a ground which has not been kind to him.

He averages only 33 in five Tests here with a best score of 68.