Damien Martyn, the former Australian batsman, took to Twitter to mock Kevin Pietersen following the latter’s infamous outburst against the England team’s lackluster performance in the first sessions of the second Test of the ongoing Ashes 2023 series at Lord’s.
Pietersen heavily criticized Ben Stokes and his players for their uninspiring bowling and fielding, which allowed Australia to reach 190/2 by Tea at Lord’s. Pietersen was also displeased with the friendly exchanges between the English and Australian players.
During an interview with Sky Sports at the Tea break, Pietersen unleashed his frustrations on the England players as they fell behind in the game, already trailing 1-0 in the series after choosing to bowl first.
Pietersen expressed his disappointment, saying, “England have been incredibly disappointing. Absolutely shambolic. Despite the favorable conditions and a pitch that suits their bowlers, England’s bowlers are barely reaching speeds of 78, 79, 80 mph.”
He continued, “It’s one thing to be complacent and boast about creating a fantastic team environment. But this is not how Ashes cricket should be played. I have firsthand experience, having played 30 Tests against Australia.”
Pietersen further criticized the England team, stating, “The Australian batsmen were waiting to face England’s bowlers before they even arrived. England’s bowlers should have been eager to bowl at the Australians, showing their hunger and determination. It’s all too comfortable and amiable. Can you imagine Ricky Ponting in 2005 engaging in friendly conversations with Geraint Jones?”
It’s started… #Ashes2023 #cricket #testcricket https://t.co/nXQsKuRr8E
— Damien Martyn🏏 (@damienmartyn) June 28, 2023
“Do you think Michael Vaughan would be casually chatting with Justin Langer, talking about the pleasant weather and the condition of the pitch? It’s absurd! I sincerely hope that in the dressing room right now, the England coach is giving them a stern reprimand, emphasizing that this level of performance is unacceptable.”