Ian Bell has claimed that it would be sensible for him to replace Kevin Pietersen at number four in England's Test batting order.

Pietersen's international career came to an end when he was released from his central contract in February, and Bell, who has spent most of his time at number five in recent years, believes that he can fill the void left by his former teammate.

"I've been at number five, so moving to four makes sense," the 32-year-old told reporters.

"But we'll see what happens. I'd like to stay in a position and be settled rather than moving up and down the order, and it feels quite nice for me at four.

"Hopefully I can stay there."

The first Test against Sri Lanka begins on June 12.