FTM Disco Pants

Whilst Andrew Strauss has been keen to not get too deeply involved in a war of words with the Australians Kevin Pietersen has been more than happy to let them know his thoughts. And who can blame him?

After all, he is only sticking up for himself. If someone calls you “a major problem” then you have every right to retaliate and call that person “a nobody” if that is what you believe. But you better be ready to back that up when you get out onto the field of play.

It is quite ironic that despite the fact that Pietersen has now gone 27 Test innings without a century, despite the fact that he is being labelled a major problem to the England side and despite attempts to belittle the player’s form and even ability, he will still be the prized scalp for the Australians. At least in the first couple of Test matches.

Should he continue to fail with the bat Strauss and Andy Flower will be forced to consider dropping him. They’re certainly not scared to do so as was shown in the limited overs series against Pakistan earlier this year.

There are even those who believe that he shouldn’t be starting the first Test at The Gabba. I, however, am not one of those people. Great sportsmen often show their greatness in times of adversity, and I believe that over the years KP has earned the right to be given the chance to prove that he is a great sportsman.

However, he has to take that chance early on. Strauss has warned that England “can’t afford any passengers” and Pietersen would do well to note that. England won the Ashes on home soil without their supposed talisman, and if they manage to retain it down under again without him then it might just be time to leave Pietersen to his own devices.

At odds of 5.6 in the Top England Series Batsman market KP is one of those prices that could look either ridiculously short are absurdly large in a couple of months time. On talent you’d have to say it’s the former but on recent form it is certainly the latter.

I personally hope that he answers his critics with some big scores for both his and, more importantly, England’s sake. But if he doesn’t then I believe England could be ready to admit that his best is behind him and that they are ready to move on. It’s time to stand up and be counted Kevin, are you up to the challenge?