Kevin Pietersen is hopeful that he will feature for the Delhi Daredevils this week after missing the side's two opening Indian Premier League matches with a finger injury.

The 33-year-old, who was recently dropped from the England squad, signed for Delhi for a bid in the region of £880,000 in February.

Pietersen, who suffered the injury during pre-season with county side Surrey, replied to a Twitter user claiming that he will not undergo surgery and is closing in on a return.

The batsman tweeted: "I'll play this week hopefully! Pain is weakness leaving the body!"

Delhi's next fixture is against Chennai Super Kings at Zayed Cricket Stadium.