Kevin Pietersen blocks Mitchell Johnson on Twitter after Ashes war of words

Kevin Pietersen and Mitchell Johnson, two of the most combative characters on the cricket pitch, re-ignited their ‘love’ for each other on Twitter, exchanging a barrage of tweets taking a dig at each other following England’s humbling loss to Australia in the opening Ashes Test at the Gabba.

Banter between players, especially ex-cricketers, is always a jestful exercise that brings additional flavour to the contest on the pitch. While Johnson tried to goad the Englishman with a cunning taunt, the manner in which the South African-born Pietersen took offence is surprising, especially because he is known to be the sort who retaliates in style when thrown muck at.

It will be interesting to see if the duel extends to the second game, or if Pietersen responds at all, to a pumped-up Johnson