Kevin Pietersen ended a wait of over three years by hitting his first one-day century since November 2008 as England romped home to a nine-wicket victory against Pakistan in Dubai. The victory ensured England claimed a 3-0 lead in the four-game series and going some way to putting the disappointment of the recent Test humiliation behind them.
The batsman had been struggling for runs at the top of order but silenced his critics with a stunning 111-not out as England reached their target of 223 with 78 balls remaining, ably assisted by opening partner Alistair Cook's innings of 80, the skipper narrowly missing out on a famous third consecutive one-day century. Those looking at the best ODI cricket betting will have been impressed.
Pietersen looked assured and relaxed at the crease as he hit the Pakistan bowlers – who had caused him so many problems over the past few weeks – to all part of the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, as the batsman made his way past 4000 ODI runs.
The 31-year old, who had been dropped on 45, looked at his absolute best as he and Cook shared a record-breaking opening stand of 170 for the first wicket.
Following Cook's dismissal for 80, Pietersen continued to play effortlessly as he and Eoin Morgan eased past the finish line with nine English wickets remaining.
Pietersen will now be looking to maintain this level of form as England's busy summer schedule comes around, as well as his participation – albeit brief – in the IPL with the Delhi Daredevils.
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