Former England captain Kevin Pietersen sparked an online debate after praising Mumbai’s air quality, calling it the “best” he had experienced. The 45-year-old former batsman, popularly known as KP, is in Mumbai for IPL 2026 commentary duties and hit out at some users who accused him of paid promotion.
With regard to X, Pietersen highlighted the city’s improved Air Quality Index (AQI), which had recently dropped to 40 due to favorable weather conditions, classifying it as “good”. As of March 28, Mumbai’s AQI remains below 50, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Mumbai AQI at 40 from Tuesday 11 pm. (Credits: CPCB)
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“The air quality in Mumbai is so good. It’s the best I’ve ever experienced! I congratulate the management for implementing the necessary measures,” he wrote.
However, Pietersen’s post drew mixed reactions online, with some users questioning his claim and claiming it was a paid promotion.
“Is this sarcasm? I love Mumbai but AQI needs a lot of improvement,” wrote one user.
Another commented: “It’s not due to leadership, it’s due to the westerly disturbances and the sea breeze keeping the AQI down. Thanks to nature.”
One user bluntly asked how much he was paid to post such views.
“How much money did you get paid to post this s*** Kevin. Shocking opinion,” the user wrote, posting a screenshot showing Mumbai’s AQI as 109.
Pietersen hit back hard, denying the charge.
“You think I get paid to post about air quality? Are you crazy?! Whenever something interests me, I tweet it! And that number is wrong – it’s around 40 today, which is fantastic!” he replied.
In a lighter post, he said: “An hour in the sun, no sun cream and I was beat. That’s how I know the air quality is excellent!” The post included a picture of Pietersen’s tanned appearance.
Still, several users praised Pietersen for pointing out the clean air in Mumbai.
“Yes, below 50 is awesome, especially when it’s not raining,” the user wrote.
“Nice to hear from someone who has traveled the world. When visitors actually notice these improvements, it speaks volumes. Clean air in big cities should never seem impossible, hopefully it only gets better from here,” said another user.
“Finally someone appreciates air quality in an Indian city, really heartening to hear from you KP,” said a third user.
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Issued by:
Prateek Chakraborty
Published on:
31 March 2026 23:47 IST
