Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has raised eyebrows with his recent criticism of the pitch at Multan Cricket Stadium during the ongoing Test match between Pakistan and England. Following the first innings, which has so far been dominated by Pakistan’s batters, Pietersen took to social media to express his frustration over the batting-friendly nature of the Multan pitch.
On Monday (October 7), the first Test match commenced with Pakistan winning the toss and opting to bat first. The decision quickly paid off as top-order batter Shan Masood and Abdullah Shafique forged a formidable partnership for the second-wicket, accumulating 253 runs before Shafique was dismissed for 102. Masood, who scored a classy 151 (177), showcased exceptional form, marking his first Test century in four years. The duo’s aggressive batting kept the scoreboard ticking at nearly four runs per over, frustrating England’s inexperienced bowling attack throughout Day 1.
Kevin Pietersen echoes England cricket fans’ sentiments
Pietersen made a remark echoing the sentiments of England cricket fans who took to social media to voice their discontent with the pitch conditions. His tweet succinctly captured the mood: “That wicket in Multan – bowlers GRAVEYARD!”
That wicket in Multan – bowlers GRAVEYARD!
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) October 7, 2024
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This criticism was further amplified by Michael Vaughan, another former England captain, who described the pitch as resembling a “road,” emphasizing the lack of challenge it posed for bowlers.
“Looks like a road in Multan .. Great toss to have won .. also nice to see @shani_official
batting in what looks like Padel shoes .. #PAKvsENG,” wrote Vaughan.
Looks like a road in Multan .. Great toss to have won .. also nice to see @shani_official batting in what looks like Padel shoes .. #PAKvsENG
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) October 7, 2024
England bowlers struggle for wickets
England’s bowling unit, which included debutant Brydon Carse and seasoned players like Chris Woakes and Jack Leach, struggled significantly against Pakistan’s batters. The absence of England’s regular captain Ben Stokes due to injury also left the team grappling for effective strategies.
Despite an early breakthrough when Pakistan lost opener Saim Ayub for just four runs, England could not capitalize on this advantage. Instead, Masood and Shafique quickly turned the tide in favour of Pakistan. By the 114th over, Pakistan have amassed 410 runs for the loss of six wickets, leaving England searching for answers and adjustments.
Also READ: Fans erupt as Shan Masood blasts his maiden century as Pakistan captain on Day 1 of the first Test against England
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