Former England batter Kevin Pietersen raised concerns about modern batting techniques after the fourth Test of the ongoing Ashes 2025-26 series in Australia. The former English skipper said that his long-held view about players lacking strong defensive foundations has become even more evident during the series.
England secured a four-wicket victory inside just two days at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. The visiting team avoided a series whitewash. Notably, the match also became only the seventh Ashes Test ever to finish within two days. In terms of balls bowled, it was the fourth shortest Ashes Test in history.
Batting Techniques Issue Is Ringing Louder and Louder – Kevin Pietersen
Kevin Pietersen took to social media to share his views about modern batting. He reiterated that today’s batters are not being developed with strong defensive skills. Pietersen added that when pitches offer extra movement and challenge, technical weaknesses are exposed.
“I’ve given The Ashes more thought – what I mentioned a while back about batting techniques is ringing louder and louder. Reemphasising previous opinion, that they’re simply not being built on the foundations of defence,” Pietersen wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).
“It’s so good to see other former players now acknowledging the same modern day flaws. So when you get a wicket that’s quite spicy, the result like MCG will happen,” he added.
Defence Is Certainly Not a Priority for the Modern-Day Player – Kevin Pietersen
Kevin Pietersen pointed out that the rise of T20 cricket has pushed defensive skills into the background. He added that players should not be blamed, as they are responding to a system that rewards aggressive play and financial gain. Pietersen also raised a bigger concern about the future of Test cricket.
“I like to find solutions for noticeable issues but I can’t find one with this. T20 cricket now governs the world game and defence is certainly not a priority for the modern day player. You CANNOT blame the player. He is a business and must take all the cash he can! I’ve always backed the players!,” Pietersen added.
“The question remains – do the powerhouses that govern the game want Test Cricket to survive or is it merely lip service to the loyal fans of that form of cricket?”
Seriously Don’t Know the Full Answers – Kevin Pietersen
The former cricketer questioned whether the growing influence of franchise cricket and domestic T20 leagues is hurting Test cricket. He pointed out that broadcasters like Sky Sports did not prioritize The Ashes, traditionally a major event in English cricket.
“Is the money for boards so good in franchises for domestic tournaments too good to not prioritise it? Why didn’t SKY take the Ashes, being the UK’s home of cricket?,” Pietersen stated.
“I seriously don’t know the full answers to these questions. I’m in SA and Boxing Day in Cape Town was a T20! As someone who belongs to the 100 Test Club, it’s v v hard to watch…,” he concluded.
I’ve given The Ashes more thought – what I mentioned a while back about batting techniques is ringing louder and louder. Reemphasising previous opinion, that they’re simply not being built on the foundations of defence.
It’s so good to see other former players now acknowledging…— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) December 28, 2025
Also read: Ben Duckett demands beer from fans during Live Ashes Test at MCG, video breaks internet
