KP, England will lament Testing time at Gabbatoir
KEVIN Pietersen still hates Brisbane and reckons England are next to no chance of winning an Ashes series full of noname players.
One of the most divisive players in England cricket is back in his most loathed city to commentate on today’s first Test at the Gabba.
Pietersen played in the 2013- 14 Ashes, which Australia won 5- 0 and was his final Test series for England.
The 37- year- old South African has been a critic of The River City and said his views hadn’t changed over the years.
“It’s a s--- hole,” he said. “I’ve got the Test match then I’ll be on the first aeroplane out of here as soon as the last ball is bowled, don’t worry.”
We’re not worried but Pietersen is about England’s chances of retaining the urn.
The visitors are rank outsiders to win in Brisbane and have been given little hope of claiming the series.
“I think it will be very tough for England to win the series,” said the 104- Test veteran.
“I just hope it’s going to be a very competitive series. Australia are definitely favourites.
“Australia should win but they’ve got to keep ( fast bowlers Mitchell) Starc, ( Josh) Hazelwood and ( Pat) Cum- mins fit. Then it should be a resounding victory.
“England have to keep ( James) Anderson and ( Stuart) Broad fit and ( Alastair) Cook and ( Joe) Root have to score runs.”
Pietersen and Optus yesterday launched a hands- free device fans can wear around their neck that will allow them to watch the action while streaming cricket data free on the Optus network with the Crick- et Australia Live app. But it could be a fizzer of a series if the lesser- known players don’t fire and have an impact, according to Pietersen.
Pietersen, who was a pain in the neck for England throughout his career, said his device would help prevent pains in the neck watching cricket.
“It sits well on the shoulders – it’s right there in front of your eyeline,” he said.
“I’ve found it very useful.”