KP slams England's premature celebrations

Former England cricket star Kevin Pietersen has criticised England for celebrating before their Six Nations match against France was decided.

Loose forward Henry Pollock has been roundly pilloried for his shushing of the Paris crowd after Tommy Freeman crossed for what appeared to be a match-winning try.

However, the moment quickly backfired.

With England 46-45 ahead and a minute remaining, Pollock won a crucial turnover but instead of taking contact to wind down the clock, he attempted an ambitious offload that went forward and handed possession back to France.

Moments later, England were penalised for a high tackle, allowing Thomas Ramos to slot a long-range penalty that sealed a dramatic 48-46 victory for France, as well as the Six Nations title.

The incident sparked widespread criticism online, with Pietersen taking to X to vent his frustration.

“I missed all of yesterday’s rugby but have seen it reported and seen a picture of @EnglandRugby celebrating, AGAIN, during the game, like they’ve won the RWC,” Pietersen wrote.

“FFS, can someone please tell them to celebrate a VICTORY after the final whistle and NOT during! PLEASE!”

ALSO: Defence concerns linger after epic Six Nations

Pollock had been heavily booed by French supporters throughout the match and appeared to embrace the pantomime villain role when he gestured to the crowd after Freeman’s try.

But the dramatic late turnaround by France ensured the moment became one of the biggest talking points of the match, with supporters across the rugby landscape mocking the flanker’s premature celebrations.

Click here to read article