Pietersen hits back at Stokes' critics after India fracas

Kevin Pietersen has come to the defence of Ben Stokes after the England captain became the subject of savage criticism in India and Australia for the behaviour seen from him and some of his teammates in the closing stages of the drawn fourth Test at Old Trafford.

- Simon Burnton

England reacted angrily to India's refusal to accept the draw when it was first offered on Sunday, with Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja instead staying on the field until they completed their centuries - which prompted England to stand down their frontline bowlers and let the batter Harry Brook bowl until they both registered three figures, amid significant on-field chuntering.

Pietersen criticised those sniping at the England captain from the comfort of their homes. He wrote on X: "Two days fielding and no result on the cards - you WANT to get off the field! You cannot have a pop at Stokes for his frustration. Very easy to have a pop at him when you're sitting in your lounge watching. You're NOT in the battle. Leave the men in the ring to be emotional."