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London - Former England captain Andrew Strauss has returned to cricket following his shock retirement after accepting a role with the International Cricket Council on Thursday.
Strauss stunned the sport when he retired in August in the aftermath of the Kevin Pietersen row, which coincided with England losing their position as the world's top-ranked Test team.
Pietersen sent provocative text messages to South African players reported to have contained criticism of Strauss and the mentally drained skipper decided to walk away following his team's Test series defeat against the Proteas.
But it was felt even then that Strauss, who captained England in 50 Tests and led the team in two successful Ashes campaigns, would return to the game in a more political role.
The 35-year-old's appointment as one of two past players on the ICC's cricket committee was supported unanimously by the world game's governing body.
Strauss has replaced former West Indies pace bowler Ian Bishop, who did not seek an extension to his term.
Meanwhile, former India captain Anil Kumble, 41, was the unanimous choice to replace Clive Lloyd as chairperson of the committee.
The ICC's 16-member cricket committee meets twice a year to consult on playing matters and offer recommendations to the ICC.
ICC president Alan Isaac said: "In Anil Kumble, we have a new chairperson who has unquestioned experience not only as a player with India but also as an administrator with Karnataka State Cricket Association as well.
"I am sure that he will carry on Clive's good work and bring, like Andrew Strauss, contemporary thinking to the committee, and both understand clearly the issues facing the modern game."
