Kevin Pietersen has been ruled out of the final Test against New Zealand with a knee injury that could sideline him for up to eight weeks.

The England and Wales Cricket Board has revealed the former Hampshire star had suffered "possible cartilage damage" to his right knee after complaining of the problem since the warm-up match to the Test series in Queenstown.

Pietersen is set to return home for further tests and is also set to miss the Indian Premier League, which begins on April 3.

"England and Surrey batsman Kevin Pietersen has been ruled out of the remaining Test against New Zealand commencing Friday March 22 due to an injury to his right knee," a statement from the ECB read.

"Pietersen experienced knee pain while fielding in preparation for the four-day game in Queenstown earlier this month, ahead of the Test series. This has failed to resolve satisfactorily.

"Recent scans confirm an injury to the right knee with bone bruising and possible cartilage damage to the kneecap.

"The 32-year-old will return to the UK for further investigations and specialist review.

"The injury is likely to require ongoing assessments and a likely six-eight week period of rest and rehabilitation.

"Pietersen has therefore been withdrawn from all cricket including the Indian Premier League."