During Day 1 of the second Ashes Test at Lord’s, Kevin Pietersen expressed his dissatisfaction with England’s tactics and approach, raising challenging questions and using sharp language. Despite being behind 0-1 in the five-match series, England chose to bowl first after winning the toss, taking into account the overcast conditions and their bowling lineup.
However, contrary to expectations, David Warner dominated the proceedings with the support of a resilient Usman Khawaja. England managed to take only one wicket in the first session, dismissing Khawaja (17) just before lunch, while Australia reached 73/1.
The situation did not improve in the second session. Apart from an exceptional delivery by young Josh Tongue that got past Warner’s bat and pad, England had little to boast about. On the other hand, Australia had much to celebrate as Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne batted with great freedom.
"Are you joking? Are you absolutely JOKING?" 😤
Kevin Pietersen is NOT happy with England today and says it has been 'shambolic' 😳 pic.twitter.com/eTJ50UBTnm
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) June 28, 2023
James Anderson and Stuart Broad struggled with their pace and failed to extract any advantage from the pitch. Australia reached Tea at 190 for two in 50 overs, scoring close to 4 runs per over. It was at this point that Pietersen launched a fierce verbal assault on the English bowlers.
“Not a lot has caught my eye from an English perspective. It’s been shambolic. Absolutely Shambolic. You have overhead conditions. The English bowlers this morning should have been on those stairs saying we want to bowl at Australia. We’re desperate to bowl at Australia. These two Australian batters are out there waiting for England.” – Pietersen said
“Are you telling me that in 2005 Ricky Ponting will be talking to Geriant Jones? You think Michael Vaughan will be talking to Justin Langer saying hey mate, awesome, what a cool day, It’s overcast, it’s beautiful. What an environment here at Lord’s. Are you joking? Are you absolutely joking.” – Kevin Pietersen concluded.Â
At the end of Day 1, Australia have scored 339 runs by losing 5 wickets. Steve Smith and Alex Carey are currently on the crease for 85 and 11 respectively.
