Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen reacted to the controversy over a viral photo featuring India cricketer Shubman Gill, head coach Rahul Dravid, and support staff with a rhino in South Africa.

The photo, taken during India's ongoing multi-format tour of South Africa, sparked debate on social media as the rhino appeared to be immobile. In the image, Gill, Dravid, fielding coach T Dilip, batting coach Vikram Rathour, and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey can be seen posing with the rhino.

The picture went viral after the Indian team's African Safari, where Gill shared snapshots of his visit, including a distant selfie with a lion on his social media handle.

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Some social media users questioned if the rhino was sedated for the photo, raising concerns about the conservation of endangered species. Some expressed surprise that Dravid, a respected figure, posed for such a photo.

Kevin Pietersen, who has his own charity, SORAI (Save Our Rhinos in Africa and India), dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating rhinos, shared his perspective on the viral photo on social media.

Pietersen wrote on X: “This would be a part of a program 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.”

Notably, apart from Pietersen, Indian captain Rohit Sharma has also been part of campaigns to spread awareness about conserving Rhinos.