• The Ashes

Pietersen's outburst prompts preparation fears

ESPN staff
December 1, 2010
Pietersen has struggled for form with the blade © Getty Images
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Kevin Pietersen has prompted fears over England's readiness for the second Test after bemoaning his inability to practice batting outdoors at the Adelaide Oval.

The England batsman appeared to accuse groundstaff of failing to cover the nets when it began to rain, a decision which meant batting practice was forced indoors.

Although the majority of England batsman enjoyed valuable time at the crease during the drawn first Test - with Alastair Cook, Andrew Strauss and Jonathan Trott notching centuries - Pietersen faced just 70 balls across the five days, scoring 43.

Pietersen's form had been a source of concern ahead of the Ashes series - he is without a Test century since March 2009 - and his lack of practice will have done nothing to cool worries over his performance level.

"What should a groundsman make sure he does two days out from a test match????" Pietersen tweeted, before adding: "Cover the nets when it rains maybe???" and then finishing off with: "PATHETIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!".

Despite Pietersen's outburst, an England spokesman confirmed the tourists are not seeking to blame anyone or make any complaints. "It is frustrating when we can't practise outdoors. We hope we can tomorrow," he said.

A spokesman for the South Australia Cricket Association said that the nets were left uncovered for less than ten minutes.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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