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England‘s dismal performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 have drawn a deluge of criticism directed towards them. The defending champions have secured victory in only one of their five matches in the tournament, leaving them languishing on second last position in the points table.
Defending champions under heavy scrutiny
The recent defeat of the Jos Buttler-led side against Sri Lanka cast a looming shadow over their ambitious quest to defend their title in the ongoing edition of the World Cup. The series of losses have not only raised eyebrows but also ignited widespread disappointment amongst the English cricketing lobby, leaving fans and pundits alike in a state of apprehension and uncertainty.
Amidst the ongoing scenario, former England captain Nasser Hussain unleashed heavy criticism on English side’s performance, using harsh and unrelenting words to express his disappointment. However, his agonizing words failed to resonate with another veteran cricketer, Kevin Pietersen, who responded with a dose of sarcasm aimed at Hussain’s critical remarks.
Nasser Hussain’s brutal remarks
Hussain heavily criticized England, mentioning that the team has crumbled as a cohesive unit and their form has faltered, which signals the potential end of an era, with some players reaching their limits.
“They have collapsed as a unit. Their form has deserted them, and it just feels like we’re coming to the end of an era. It has been a bridge too far for some of them.” Hussain wrote in a column for Sky Sports.
Also READ: World Cup 2023 – England head coach Matthew Mott issues hopeless remarks on his team’s chances of playing in the semi-finals
Kevin Pietersen’s unfiltered reaction
Pietersen emphasized that England’s white-ball team has provided years of thrilling entertainment. The 43-year-old discouraged negativity and the “end of an era” talk (aiming at Hussain without mentioning his name), and urged against playing the blame game, which he found embarrassing.
“This England white ball team has given us many years of absolute joy and excitement. I’m seeing quite a bit of negativity and ‘end of era’ stuff. If it is, that’s life. Don’t start the blame game. You’re embarrassing if you do!,” Pietersen mentioned in a tweet.
This England white ball team has given us many years of absolute joy and excitement. I’m seeing quite a bit of negativity and ‘end of era’ stuff. If it is, that’s life.
Don’t start the blame game. You’re embarrassing if you do!— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) October 27, 2023
