New 5 live podcast with Kevin Pietersen and his mission to save our most precious beasts from extinction

The former England cricketer was a divisive character when he played, as famous for his outspoken views as for his skill as a batsman.

His battles on the crease may be over, but now he’s taken up a new fight against the brutal slaughter of the elephant, rhino, lion and leopard in his native South Africa.

In a new podcast series for BBC Radio 5 live, Pietersen is joined by Sarah Brett on the front line of his crusade. At Kruger National Park they see the horrific maiming of rhinos for their horns. They meet the rangers who are ready to kill the poachers and they confront the social media trophy hunters who pose over their prey.

Pietersen has given 5 live unprecedented access to his own South Africa home to spread awareness of the danger that some of our most precious animals face, and to illustrate the battles being fought to help preserve them for generations to come.

He says: “I’m one part in trying to save some of the most iconic species on our planet. This podcast is my story - and much more.”

The BBC Radio 5 live podcast will be available on BBC Sounds from the end of March 2019.