Top News

Cricket legend Kevin Pietersen has revealed one of the secrets behind his brilliant career - the tea break.

The superstar batter’s love of the 140-year-old ritual should come as no surprise as he was involved in one of the greatest after-tea sessions in history at the Ashes test at Edgbaston in 2005. To celebrate this sporting institution, Kevin was hosting Tea20, an exclusive afternoon tea hosted by Marriott Bonvoy at The Oval on Sunday, to celebrate its new partnership as the official accommodation partner of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Along with 30 cricketing fans, he watched the nail biting final of theT20 World Cup where hosts India stormed to victory against New Zealand in Ahmedabad.

• Harry Brook is the flawed genius who can lead England to World Cup glory in India

• England cricket star Jonny Bairstow worried for family's safety in Dubai after missile attacks

“The tea break has always been a defining part of the game,” Kevin said. “It’s where strategies are shaped and momentum can swing. To celebrate that tradition on such a huge day, at The Oval, with fans right at the heart of it, is something incredibly special.” The Oval is one of Pietersen’s most celebrated home grounds, where he scored his maiden Ashes century and recorded his highest first-class score during his time with Surrey.

Kevin said that the venue was his favourite ground in England. “I love batting at The Oval,” he added. "Lord's has obviously got the history and when I go back now, I think did I actually bat here?"

“But I absolutely love The Oval and the whole rush, finishing the 2005 Ashes here. This is the place.” Marriott Bonvoy’s partnership with the ICC gives its 260million members a chance to enjoy the excitement of the game around the world, with exclusive offers for cricket fans, including events such as Tea20.

Guests at The Oval listened to stories and insights from Kevin’s career, including how tea breaks shape tactics, momentum and match-defining moments at the highest level of the game.

The lavish menu included tandoori chicken lollipops, lamb chapli kebab skewers, eggs masala sandwiches and Indian milk cake with viola petals to celebrate the T20 winners. Guests also got to pick from a selection of teas and tea-inspired cocktails including the Green Boundary, Golden Pavillion and Jasmine Court.

Marriott Bonvoy is introducing ‘Tea20’ as a themed tea menu at selected properties across the UK including London Marriott Hotel County Hall; St. Pancras London, Autograph Collection; London Marriott Hotel Regents Park; and Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly to continue the cricket celebration throughout the summer.

Andrew Watson, chief commercial officer EMEA, Marriott International, said: “Cricket’s heartbeat is truly global. This partnership with the ICC gives our Marriott Bonvoy members across EMEA a seamless way to travel to India and Sri Lanka for the ICC’s Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 - pairing curated itineraries with access to on‑the‑ground hospitality and experiences that brings them closer to every moment.

“We’re excited to turn match days into unforgettable journeys for our members - and maybe also help to create a few new cricket fans along the way.”

Find out more about sports-inspired experiences planned throughout 2026 at www.marriott.com.