Pietersen, 28, replaces Michael Vaughan, who resigned on Sunday, to become England's 74th Test captain and also takes over the one-day side from Paul Collingwood, who also stepped down at the weekend.

With England's selectors keen to appoint one man to captain all international sides, instead of the split captaincy they had adopted over the past year, Pietersen was always the favourite because he was about the only player guaranteed a place in both teams.

The Hampshire batsman, who captained England in a one-dayer against New Zealand earlier this year, will lead England in a Test for the first time in Thursday's final Test against South Africa at The Oval.

''I'm very thrilled and excited to have been given the opportunity to captain England,'' he said. ''It's a huge honour and a terrific challenge for me at this stage of my international career.

''I have learned a great deal about leadership from playing under both Michael and Paul and fully appreciate the level of responsibility that comes with the job of captaining your country.

''They are big shoes that I have to fill but I will give it the best possible go. It is a great honour.

''It is something that has turned my life around in the last 24 hours. It has been a very emotional time for me.''

Pietersen insisted the captaincy would not make him temper the aggressive style which had made him one of the world's leading batsmen.

''Time will tell but I hope it won't restrict the way I play. I've been successful with my style and I would be foolish to change that.''

National selector Geoff Miller confirmed Pietersen's role as an established member of all three international teams was a key factor. AFP