Australia Test captain Michael Clarke believes Kevin Pietersen could be in England's squad come the Ashes in July and August this year.
Pietersen, 34, is targeting a return to the England setup in time for the Ashes later this year.
The batsman's England career was ended in February last year, a month after England were thrashed 5-0 in Australia.
Pietersen made 170 for Surrey on his return to county cricket, and Clarke believes the veteran is on track for an England return when the Ashes start.
"I do think he could be at the Ashes," Clarke said on Friday, when he was unveiled as the new Melbourne Stars captain.
"He's certainly scoring enough runs. He's made it very clear he wants to play and now it comes down to the England selectors and the board making their decision.
"From the Australians' perspective, I hope he's not playing because he's a wonderful player."
Clarke was unveiled as the captain of the Stars, despite having never played in the Big Bash League after previously signing with the Sydney Thunder.
The 34-year-old said his retirement from one-day internationals would allow him to focus on Twenty20s.
"I think I showed probably most recently in the World Cup final that I can still play in this format," Clarke said.
"I've never had the opportunity to focus on Twenty20 cricket."