New Delhi, Jan 8 (NationPress) Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has criticized the English cricket team, asserting that a squad ‘with intelligence isn’t sufficient to rival’ either Australia or India. His remarks followed England’s poor showing in their 1-4 Ashes defeat, culminating in a five-wicket loss in the fifth and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday.

In the wake of the defeat, Richard Gould, Chief Executive Officer of the England and Wales Cricket Board, announced that a 'comprehensive review' is already in progress following England's 4-1 Ashes loss.

Commenting on the situation, Pietersen stated he would assist the board in their inquiry ‘at no cost’, writing on X, “I’ll contribute to the thorough investigation that the ECB is set to conduct, right here, at no charge. Aside from Stokes, Root, Archer, Bethell, and Brook WITH intelligence, the team isn’t capable of competing with Australia or India. This has been evidenced throughout this tour, especially with Australia missing many of their top players. All the pre-tour discussions, discipline talks, and now inquiries are mere distractions. It’s straightforward, as I’ve mentioned.”

Despite entering the Ashes series with confidence, England faced successive losses in the initial three Tests held in Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide, resulting in them losing the urn in just 11 days.

Although England managed a victory in the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australia sealed a dominant 4–1 series win with a five-wicket triumph in the fifth Test at the SCG, successfully chasing a target of 160 on a challenging final-day pitch.

Australia began their chase confidently, with Travis Head leading a strong 62-run opening partnership. England remained competitive, creating suspense with tight bowling, missed reviews, and close calls, including a controversial caught-behind decision. Josh Tongue dismissed both openers before lunch, and following the break, England struck again, as Will Jacks bowled Steve Smith. However, Australia faced a series of quick wickets, raising hopes for an England comeback.

Despite some late-game anxiety, Cameron Green and Alex Carey steadied the innings with a critical 40-run partnership. Carey’s boundary in the 32nd over sealed the victory, culminating in Australia’s remarkable series triumph.