Kevin Pietersen has been backed to make a success of the England captaincy by senior figures at his former union in South Africa.

The Natal-born batsman was appointed England Test and one-day captain on Monday following the respective resignations of Michael Vaughan and Paul Collingwood, and KZNCU chief executive Cassim Docrat believes the Hampshire star's lack of captaincy experience will not be an issue for Pietersen.

"I think cometh the hour cometh the man and maybe it's the same with him," Docrat told PA Sport. "He has taken the opportunity of playing for England with both hands and he's done so wonderfully well in that."

He added: "I can only say that with the right frame of mind, if he takes it seriously, I think Kevin can go a long way in leading England."

Pietersen made his ODI debut for England late in 2004 before making his Test bow against Australia the following year.

Docrat admitted he had always expected Pietersen to play for the Proteas but wishes the 28-year-old well in his new role of England skipper.

"I think the fact that he comes from this part of the world is really great," he added.

"We had always anticipated that he would one day have a long-term future in South African cricket. But, for whatever reasons, he decided to go to England and we can only wish him well.

"There is no doubt that he is a good cricketer and to represent not only a country, but to captain them is a great honour for him and many of those who can associate with Kevin Pietersen."