Powered by
Sponsored by

Pietersen pans England selectors, ‘disrespectful not to play your best team’ vs India

The former England captain said that there is a big debate over the team selection

kp-kevin-pietersen [File] Former Engalnd captain Kevin Pietersen | AFP

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen criticised England selectors for not sending their “best team” to play when they tour India next month, saying that it is disrespectful to the England fans and to the BCCI.

Pietersen was referring to the decision of the England and Wales Cricket Board to rest wicket-keeper batsman Jonny Bairstow for the first two Tests against India. The decision was made due to the ECB’s policy of player management as Bairstow is currently playing in the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka and requires adequate rest in a packed calendar year.

India and England will play the first Test in Chennai from February 5.

Pietersen took to Twitter and said that there is a big debate over the team selection.

“Big debate on whether ENG have picked their best team to play India in the 1st Test. Winning IN India is as good a feeling as winning in Aus. It’s disrespectful to ENG fans & also @BCCI to NOT play your best team,” he wrote on Twitter.

“Bairstow has to play! Broad/Anderson have to play!” he added.

In another tweet, the former captain said that players can have a break after playing as many games as possible against India and then the Indian Premier League.

“The BEST England players will want to play as many games as possible against India, in India. PICK THEM! Then they go to IPL & earn everything they deserve. Cash is king for every sportsman. They’re a business! They can have a break after that!” he tweeted.

The teams are scheduled to play four Tests, five T20Is, and three ODIs during the tour.

Earlier, former England captain Nasser Hussain had also expressed his doubts over the board’s decision to rest Bairstow, adding that it needs a “rethink”.

“Should you be resting or rotating for India or do you turn up to the first Test of that India series, an iconic series, and pick your best side?” Hussain asked.

📣 The Week is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@TheWeekmagazine) and stay updated with the latest headlines