Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen expressed concern over modern batting techniques after the fourth Test of the ongoing Ashes 2025-26 series in Australia. The former England captain said his long-held view about the players lacking a strong defensive foundation had become even more apparent during the series.
England won by four wickets in just two days at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. The visiting team escaped a whitewash in the series. Notably, the match also became the seventh Ashes Test to end inside two days. In terms of balls bowled, it was the fourth shortest Ashes Test in history.
The issue of batting technique is ringing loudly – Kevin Pietersen
Kevin Pietersen took to social media to share his thoughts about modern batting. He reiterated that today’s batsmen are not developing strong defensive skills. Pietersen said technical weaknesses become exposed when pitches offer additional movement and challenge.
“I have given more thought to the Ashes – what I mentioned some time ago about batting techniques is ringing even louder. Emphasizing again the previous opinion, that they are not simply being built on a foundation of defence,” peterson Written on X (formerly known as Twitter).
He said, “It’s great to see other former players now accepting the same modern-day flaws. So when you get a wicket that is spicy enough, there will be a result like at the MCG.”
Defense is definitely not a priority for modern-day player Kevin Pietersen
Kevin Pietersen pointed out that the rise of T20 cricket has pushed defensive skills to the background. He said the players should not be blamed, as they are responding to a system that rewards aggressive play and financial gain. Pietersen also expressed great concern about the future of Test cricket.
“I love finding solutions for noticeable issues, but I can’t find any in this. T20 cricket now controls the world game and defense is definitely not a priority for the modern player. You can’t blame the player. He’s a business and should make as much money as possible! I’ve always supported the players!” peterson Added.
“The question remains – do the powerful people who control the game want Test cricket to survive or is it just window dressing for the loyal fans of that format of cricket?”
Seriously don’t know the whole answer – Kevin Pietersen
The former cricketer questioned whether the growing influence of franchise cricket and domestic T20 leagues was hurting Test cricket. He explained that broadcasters such as Sky Sports did not prioritize the Ashes, which is traditionally a major event in English cricket.
“Is the money on board the franchise for domestic tournaments so good that it should not be prioritised? Why has SKY not taken the Ashes despite the UK being the home of cricket?”. Peterson said.
“I seriously don’t know the full answers to these questions. I’m in South Africa and Boxing Day in Cape Town was a T20! As someone who belongs to the 100 Test club, it’s very difficult to watch…,” he concluded.
I’ve been thinking more about the Ashes – what I mentioned a while ago about batting techniques is ringing even more loudly. Reiterating the previous opinion, that they are simply not being built on a foundation of defense.
It’s great to see other former players now accepting…– Kevin Pietersen (@KP24) 28 December 2025
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