Kevin Pietersen's bullying claims true: Graeme Smith

Kevin Pietersen (L) and Graeme Smith

Former South African captain Graeme Smith has backed Kevin Pietersen’s bullying claims, made by the 34-year-old in this book KP: The Autobiography, saying that his team even used it as a strategy to defeat England during his time at the helm.

Pietersen, in his recently released book, has revealed the existence of bullying culture in England dressing room, with reference to the likes of Matt Prior, Graeme Swann and James Anderson asking teammates for a forced apology in case of fielding lapses.

He said: “Some of the stuff that he touches on in his book I certainly can believe. Having played against them we always used to say if we could get a win or get ahead, that they would turn on each other.”

England management to blame

Smith, in spite of having had a fragile relationship with the England international during their playing days, condemned the England Cricket Board for Pietersen not being a international cricketer anymore. The 33-year-old, in an interview with Johannesburg-based radio station Highveld FM, said: “It’s well documented that in the early days myself and Kevin didn’t get on too well but that is behind us now.

“KP is a draw card and world cricket loves to watch him play the game. I think it’s sad he is not playing international cricket anymore and I think English cricket is worse off without him.

“Management is probably a big factor in why he is not there.”