The question around why modern Test matches last two or three days has resurfaced, this time following the Ashes 2025 opener in Perth, which lasted only two days. Former England captain Kevin Pietersen made a disparaging remark about current-generation batters, claiming that the effect of T20 cricket has weakened conventional Test match technique.
The first Ashes Test of the 2025-26 series saw 19 wickets fall on Day 1, with Australia completing a chase on Day 2 to secure an eight-wicket victory. It was the first Ashes Test to be completed in two days since 1921, prompting concerns about the level of batting and adaptability in red ball cricket. While pitches have frequently been blamed in previous years, Pietersen discussed the batters’ skill sets. Pietersen had previously stated that current batters lack the defensive discipline required in Test cricket. After seeing the collapse-filled Ashes opening, he backed up his statement.
“Whether it’s a spinning ball or now a fast and bouncy wicket, my tweet from last week rings TRUE again – batters techniques these days are flawed for Test Match cricket. And, like I said, who cares, cos it’s not where their bread is buttered and you can’t blame them! Enjoy the bumpy ride of 6s, 4s, and wickets,” he wrote on X.
Whether it’s a spinning ball or now a fast and bouncy wicket, my tweet from last week rings TRUE again – batters techniques these days are flawed for Test Match cricket.
And, like I said, who cares, cos it’s not where their bread is buttered and you can’t blame them!
Enjoy…
— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) November 22, 2025
Kevin Pietersen targets global batters
His comment came after England were rolled over for 172 and 164, lasting barely 197 balls in the first innings, their second-shortest against Australia. Meanwhile, the home team was bundled for 132 on Day 1 before Travis Head’s 123 off 83 balls guided a record-breaking chase of 205 in just 28.2 overs.
Pietersen also pointed out that the issue is global. India faced similar criticism during their recent Test against South Africa. Across teams, patience at the crease has diminished, and fundamentals like leaving the ball, playing late, and adjusting to conditions appear compromised.
India
