What Kevin Pietersen said about Rahul Dravid, Shubman Gill's viral photo with rhino in South Africa

Shubman Gill, Rahul Dravid and Indian support staff with a rhino in South Africa. Image: Twitter

After a viral photograph featuring India cricketer Shubman Gill, head coach Rahul Dravid, and a rhino during their visit to a wildlife zone in South Africa attracted plenty of criticism, former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has reacted. The photograph in question showed the star Indian cricketer and support staff members posing with a rhino.

Several social media users raised questions whether the rhino was tranquilised to facilitate the cricketers’ photo-op. Others were surprised that someone of Rahul Dravid’s stature participated in posing with an endangered specie.

Kevin Pietersen, known for his active involvement in rhino conservation through his charity SORAI (Save our Rhinos in Africa and India), has spoken about the issue on his social media platform to offer his perspective on the viral photo.

“This would be a part of a programme that’s being ethically run through a trusted conservation org. This animal wouldn’t be darted for photos with people. To say or imply this is truly misleading and discredits the wonderful conservation orgs in SA that are trying to save this iconic species,” Pietersen said in a post on X.

Pietersen has been an advocate for conservation action and has also used his high-profile status to educate the public and garner support. He has engaged in initiatives such as National Geographic’s ‘Save This Rhino – India’ documentary to shed light on the challenges faced by rhinos.

Apart from Pietersen, India captain Rohit Sharma has also actively participated in campaigns aimed at raising awareness for rhino conservation.

Earlier, the picture, featuring Shubman Gill, Rahul Dravid, India’s fielding coach T Dilip, batting coach Vikram Rathour, and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, went viral and courted criticism.