December 28, 2024
Sports

England legend Kevin Pietersen reveals concern over Adil Rashids Test recall ahead of India series

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Kevin Pietersen reacts to controversial Adil Rashid England recall ahead of India series
Kevin Pietersen fears Adil Rashid will be less effective in Test cricket (Picture: Getty)

Kevin Pietersen has issued a word of warning to England after Adil Rashids controversial recall to the Test squad.

Rashids shock inclusion in Englands squad to face India next week led to criticism from the former captain Michael Vaughan and fury from his county Yorkshire.

That is because the 30-year-old essentially retired from red-ball cricket in February, saying his heart was not in the format as he decided to sign a limited-overs only contract.

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But Rashid says he chose to make himself available for the upcoming Test series against India, the number one team in the world, after a discussion with Ed Smith following the recent one-day series.

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After announcing his squad on Thursday, National Selector Smith insisted the selection committee were in agreement that Rashid deserved a recall.

Speaking out on Englands decision, Pietersen said: Picking Rashid if he plays four-day County Cricket or not doesnt interest me at all.

Kevin Pietersen reacts to controversial Adil Rashid England recall ahead of India series
Rashid looks set to play his first Test in over 18 months (Picture: Getty)

But, the difference between facing a spinner in Tests compared to white ball is massive.

West Indies tried it with [Sunil] Narine – I played in that Test and it was a different ball game. I hope Adil goes well.

Vaughan, who inspired Englands stunning Ashes triumph over Australia in 2005, accused Rashid of being a bit dozy and unprofessional after his recall was confirmed.

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Rashid hit back at the Test Match Special pundit on Friday morning, telling BBC Sport: He can say a lot and he thinks people might listen, but I dont think they do.

I dont see what the big deal is, with people talking about me being retired. I didnt say anything about retirement, which some pundits have said.

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It was not an easy decision, but when your country wants you and asks if you are available, you cannot just say no.

MORE: Heatwave causes the MCC to actually let people remove their blazers in Lords Pavilion

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