Kevin Pietersen is set to become a father for the first time next summer, after it was confirmed on Monday night that his pop-star wife, Jessica Taylor, is three months’ pregnant.

Pietersen, who has just returned to international action after a four-month lay-off for Achilles surgery, said to be “ecstatic and thrilled” at the news. He and Taylor, a former singer with Liberty X, have been known as the “Posh and Becks of cricket” since their wedding in December 2007.

“They are both very excited about the news and have told families and friends that they don’t want to know the baby’s sex in advance,” a friend told The Daily Mail. “All is well, and they are looking forward to next summer.”

The timing of the arrival could prove problematic for England, however. The birth is due to coincide with England’s home Test series against Bangladesh in late May.