Pietersen annihilates S Africa

Updated 18.51 Thu Jul 10 2008
Keywords: lord's, south africa, south africa cricket, first test england v south africa, michael vaughan, england cricket, cricket, england, sport

Kevin Pietersen destroyed South Africa with a mesmerising century at Lord's.

The South African-born batsman struck 13 fours and a six for his 13th century as England closed day one of the first Test on 309-3.

Pietersen scored 13 fours and a six for his 13th century.

Pietersen finished the day with an unbeaten 104 ably supported by Ian Bell, also undefeated on 75.

Their stand was pivotal because earlier England had been in trouble after three wickets had fallen for three runs in 13 balls after lunch.

Earlier, Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook gave England a fine start with a stand of 114 after the tourists opted to bowl.

Cook and Strauss shared an opening partnership of 114, until Strauss was trapped lbw for 44.

England captain Michael Vaughan came in at number three and was soon bowled out for just two.

And Cook followed him into the pavilion soon after when he was caught out for 60, leaving England on 117 for three.

South Africa captain Graeme Smith won the toss and put England into bat.

Vaughan admitted he would have put South Africa into bat if he had won the toss in sunny conditions after two days of heavy rain.

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