The present study explored the perspectives of a problematic player (Kevin Pietersen)
and media surrounding a critical incident within the player’s career
(Textgate). Using thematic narrative analysis of Pietersen’s autobiography and media
articles at the time of textgate, the current study found that Pietersen and the media
adopted opposing narrative types when describing their perspectives of the incident. It
was found that Pietersen adopted a defence narrative, embodying victimisation from the
England team and media leading to a sense of not belonging to the team. Whilst the
media presented a prosecution narrative which focussed on identifying Pietersen as a
negative and difficult individual and highlighting the differences between him and the
other England members. An overall trial narrative which encompassed the stories from
Pietersen, and the media which showed the two sources presenting their final arguments
to support their own perspective and refute the other was also identified. The current
findings create a firm foundation for future literature exploring problematic players to
expand upon, with a greater emphasis on exploring the perspectives of a problematic
player directly after a critical incident.