Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has sparked debate over pitch conditions after as many as 20 wickets fell on the opening day of the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Taking to social media, Pietersen said India is routinely “hammered” whenever wickets tumble rapidly on Day 1 of a Test, and argued that Australian pitches deserve the same level of scrutiny, adding, “Fair is fair.”
The Boxing Day Test, part of the 2025–26 Ashes series with Australia leading 3-0, saw a dramatic opening day dominated by bowlers.
England won the toss and opted to bowl, dismissing Australia for 152 in 45.2 overs. Michael Neser top-scored with 35, while Josh Tongue led England’s attack with a five-wicket haul.
England then struggled just as badly, getting bowled out for 110. Harry Brook top-scored with 41, while Joe Root was dismissed for a duck.
Neser claimed four wickets as Australia secured a 42-run lead. Australia ended the day at 4 without loss in their second innings.
Pietersen’s comments have reignited discussions around consistency in evaluating pitch conditions across different countries.
