Kevin Pietersen

Infobox cricketer biography
playername = Kevin Pietersen
female =


country = England
fullname = Kevin Peter Pietersen
nickname = KP
living = true
dayofbirth = 27
monthofbirth = 6
yearofbirth = 1980
placeofbirth = Pietermaritzburg, Natal
countryofbirth = South Africa
heightft = 6
heightinch = 4
batting = Right-hand
bowling = Right-arm off break
role = England captain, middle order batsman, occasional off spinner
international = true
testdebutdate = 21 July
testdebutyear = 2005
testdebutagainst = Australia
testc

lasttestdate = 7 August
lasttestyear = 2008
lasttestagainst = South Africa
odidebutdate = 28 November
odidebutyear = 2004
odidebutagainst = Zimbabwe
odic

lastodidate = 3 September
lastodiyear = 2008
lastodiagainst = South Africa
odishirt = 24
club1 = Hampshire
year1 = 2005–present
clubnumber1 = 24
club2 = Nottinghamshire
year2 = 2001–2004
clubnumber2 =
club3 = MCC
year3 = 2004
clubnumber3 =
club4 = KwaZulu Natal
year4 = 1999–2000
club5 = KwaZulu Natal B
year5 = 1998–1999
club6 = Natal B
year6 = 1997–1998
deliveries = balls
columns = 4
column1 = Tests
matches1 = 43
runs1 = 3,890
bat avg1 = 50.51
100s/50s1 = 14/11
top score1 = 226
deliveries1 = 609
wickets1 = 4
bowl avg1 = 107.75
fivefor1 = 0
tenfor1 = 0
best bowling1 = 1/0
catches/stumpings1 = 29/–
column2 = ODIs
matches2 = 82 [Includes two matches for ICC World XI]
runs2 = 2,822
bat avg2 = 47.83
100s/50s2 = 6/19
top score2 = 116
deliveries2 = 143
wickets2 = 4
bowl avg2 = 33.50
fivefor2 = 0
tenfor2 = n/a
best bowling2 = 2/22
catches/stumpings2 = 31/–
column3 = FC
matches3 = 127
runs3 = 10,172
bat avg3 = 51.37
100s/50s3 = 36/39
top score3 = 254*
deliveries3 = 5,377
wickets3 = 60
bowl avg3 = 51.73
fivefor3 = 0
tenfor3 = 0
best bowling3 = 4/31
catches/stumpings3 = 109/–
column4 = List A
matches4 = 190
runs4 = 6,257
bat avg4 = 44.37
100s/50s4 = 11/40
top score4 = 147
deliveries4 = 2,103
wickets4 = 38
bowl avg4 = 48.76
fivefor4 = 0
tenfor4 = n/a
best bowling4 = 3/14
catches/stumpings4 = 73/–
date = 20 September
year = 2008
source = http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Players/8/8063/8063.html CricketArchive

Kevin Peter Pietersen MBE (born 27 June 1980 in Pietermaritzburg, Natal, South Africa) is an English cricketer. He is an attacking right-handed batsman and occasional off spin bowler who plays for Hampshire County Cricket Club and is captain of both the England Test match and One Day International teams.

He made his first-class debut for Natal in 1997 before moving to England after voicing his displeasure at the racial quota system in place in South Africa, [http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/england/content/player/19296.html Kevin Pietersen biography] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] and to further his opportunities for playing at international level. His English mother gave Pietersen eligibility to play for England, and after serving a qualifying period of four years playing at county level, he was called up almost immediately into the national side. He made his international debut in the One Day International match against Zimbabwe in 2004, [ [http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Players/8/8063/One-Day_International_Matches.html One Day International Matches played by Kevin Pietersen] , Cricketarchive. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] and his Test match debut in the 2005 Ashes series against Australia the following year. [ [http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Players/8/8063/Test_Matches.html Test Matches played by Kevin Pietersen] , Cricketarchive. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] Pietersen became the fastest batsman to reach both 1000 and 2000 runs in One Day International cricket, [http://www.cricinfo.com/db/STATS/ODIS/BATTING/FASTEST_ODI_CAREER_RUNS/ODI_FASTEST_TO_1000_RUNS.html ODIs - Fastest to 1000 Career Runs] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] Rajesh, S and Gopalakrishna, HR. " [http://content-www.cricinfo.com/wc2007/content/story/291874.html Pietersen breaks a jinx] ", Cricinfo, 2007-04-21. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] and currently has the highest average of any England player to have played more than 20 innings of one-day cricket. [ [http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Records/England/Odis/Career_Batting_by_Average.html Career Batting and Fielding for England in ODIs] Cricketarchive. Retrieved on 2007-06-03.] He has the second-highest run total from his first 25 Tests, behind only the Australian Donald Bradman.Brenkley, Stephen. " [http://sport.independent.co.uk/cricket/article2586624.ece Second Test: Pietersen plunders before the collapse] ", "The Independent", 2007-05-27. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] He became only the third English batsman to top the ICC One Day International rankings, doing so in March 2007. [" [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/engvaus/content/story/287248.html Pietersen jumps to top of ODI rankings] ", Cricinfo, 2007-03-26. Retrieved 2007-06-06.] In July 2008, after making a century against South Africa, The Times called him "the most complete batsman in cricket". [" [http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/cricket/article4322660.ece] ", "The Times", 2008-07-13. Retrieved 2008-07-18.]

Early and personal life

Born of an English mother and an Afrikaner father, Penny and Jannie, Pietersen had a strict and well-disciplined childhood, along with his three brothers Tony, Greg and Bryan; [ [http://kevin-pietersen.tripod.com/id1.html The Man with the Hair] . Retrieved on 2007-06-05.] he learned valuable lessons from this "fantastic" approach to parenting, and said: "Discipline is good. It taught me that I didn't always have to have what I wanted; that what I needed was different from what I wanted."Cooke, Rachel. " [http://observer.guardian.co.uk/osm/story/0,,1882063,00.html 'I was up at six. I've a party to go to. So what is it you want?'] ", "The Observer", 2006-10-01. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] In his autobiography he refers to himself and his brothers getting the cane at home and at school, although this was not uncommon in South Africa in the 1990s. Bryan is currently playing club and second XI cricket in England. [" [http://www.wansteadandwoodfordguardian.co.uk/sport/cricket/display.var.849912.0.pietersen_looks_for_essex_move.php Pietersen looks for Essex move] ", Guardian-Series, 2006-07-27. Retrieved on 2007-05-31.]

Pietersen attended Maritzburg College, Pietermaritzburg, and made his first-class cricket debut for Natal's B team in 1997, aged 17, where he was regarded predominantly as an off spin bowler and a hard-hitting lower-order batsman.Brenkley, Stephen. " [http://sport.independent.co.uk/cricket/article10464.ece Pietersen faces sternest test on home turf] ." "The Independent", 2005-02-11. Retrieved on 2007-05-29.] Borland, Ken. " [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/ci/content/story/92818.html Nottinghamshire sign young South African] ", Cricinfo, 2000-10-03. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] After two seasons, he moved to England for a five-month spell as the overseas player for club side Cannock CC, helping them win the Birmingham and District Premier League in 2000." [http://www.expressandstar.co.uk/2006/09/06/pietersen-in-cricket-club-row/ Pietersen in cricket club row] ", "Express & Star", 2006-09-06. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] This first spell away from home did not leave him with fond memories for England, in particular "those horrible Black Country accents", living in a single room above a squash court, and working in the club bar. However, he returned to newly-renamed KwaZulu Natal side a better cricketer, a lack of opportunities to bowl having improved his batting.

Pietersen is widely portrayed in the media as having a self-assured personality, described by Geoffrey Boycott as being "cocky and confident". [Boycott, Geoffrey. " [http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?xml=/sport/2005/09/13/scboyc13.xml Warne lets the urn slip from his grasp] ", "The Daily Telegraph", 2005-12-09. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] ex England test captain Michael Vaughan counters this, saying, "KP is not a confident person. He obviously has great belief in his ability but that's not quite the same thing... And I know KP wants to be loved. I try to text him and talk to him as often as I can because I know he is insecure." [McRae, Donald. " [http://sport.guardian.co.uk/cricket/story/0,10069,1594567,00.html Psychology that guides England's man of steel] ", "The Guardian", 2005-10-18. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] He has been noted for his unusual haircuts, with his peroxide blond dyed streak of hair along the middle of his head during the 2005 Ashes series being described as a "dead skunk" look. [William, Richard. " [http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk_news/story/0,,1568634,00.html After 16 years, to England, the Ashes] ", "The Guardian", 2005-09-13. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] During the 2006–07 Ashes tour, the Australian team, noted for their efforts to dominate opponents psychologically, dubbed him "The Ego", or "FIGJAM" (Fuck I'm Good, Just Ask Me). [Fraser, Angus. " [http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4158/is_20061230/ai_n17091835- Buchanan slates Pietersen for selfish attitude] ", "The Independent", 2006-12-30. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] Other nicknames include "KP", "Kelves" and "Kapes".

Pietersen is married to Liberty X singer Jessica Taylor. [Greenstreet, Rosanna. " [http://www.guardian.co.uk/weekend/story/0,,1861841,00.html Q&A] ", "The Guardian", 2006-09-02. Retrieved on 2007-05-28;] The couple married on 29 December 2007 at the Manor House Hotel in Wiltshire, with former England team-mate Darren Gough acting as best man. [Baker, Andrew. " [http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?xml=/sport/2007/04/18/scbake18.xml Dancing to Gough's tune] ", "The Daily Telegraph", 2007-04-18. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.]

International career

uccess in South Africa

The tour of Zimbabwe caused several players to voice their concerns about the Robert Mugabe regime, the security issues in the country and the standard of the Zimbabwean side. [" [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/zimbabwe/content/story/143154.html England agree to five-match series in Zimbabwe] ", Cricinfo, 2004-09-09. Retrieved on 2007-05-30.] Steve Harmison was the first to boycott the tour for "political and sporting reasons", [" [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/engvwi/content/story/143416.html Harmison opts out of Zimbabwe tour] ", Cricinfo, 2004-09-19. Retrieved on 2007-05-30.] and all-rounder Andrew Flintoff was reported to be considering taking a moral stand himself. The England Chairman of Selectors David Graveney denied that the selectors would leave out players unhappy with touring Zimbabwe and would put their absences down to injury. [" [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/engvwi/content/story/143599.html Full-strength side will tour Zimbabwe] ", Cricinfo, 2004-09-26. Retrieved on 2007-05-30.] Flintoff was, however, "rested" and Pietersen rushed into the squad "at the earliest opportunity". [" [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/engvwi/content/story/143632.html Flintoff and Trescothick stay at home] ", Cricinfo, 2004-09-28. Retrieved on 2007-05-30.] In the five match ODI series, Pietersen batted in three innings which included a score of 77 not out; he finished the series with an average of 104.00 as England won the series 4–0.

Pietersen was upset not to be initially in the squad to tour South Africa. [" [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/england/content/story/142649.html Pietersen hits out at non-selection] ", Cricinfo, 2004-10-20. Retrieved on 2007-05-30.] With Flintoff withdrawing due to injury, [" [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/engvwi/content/story/145551.html Flintoff surgery is confirmed] ", Cricinfo, 2005-01-25. Retrieved on 2007-05-30.] Pietersen was recalled to the squad, [" [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/ci/content/story/145268.html Pietersen added to England's one-day squad] ", Cricinfo, 2005-01-14. Retrieved on 2007-05-29.] and cemented his place in the first team with 97 off 84 balls in the warm-up match against South Africa A, in the face of a hostile crowd. [Majendie, Matt. " [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/4215057.stm Pietersen enters South Africa cauldron] ", BBC Sport, 2005-01-28. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] Throughout the tour, Pietersen was subjected to a barrage of abuse from the South African crowd, who regarded him somewhat like a traitor. He said:

I knew I was going to cop a lot of stick but it will be like water off a duck's back...I expected stick at the start of the innings, and I'm sure it will carry on through the whole series. But I just sat back and laughed at the opposition, with their swearing and 'traitor' remarks... some of them can hardly speak English. My affiliation is with England. In fact, I'm starting to speak too much like Darren Gough... In fact, I'm going to get one of Gough's tattoos with three lions and my number underneath...No one can say I'm not English. [" [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/ci/content/story/145622.html Pietersen says abuse is 'water off a duck's back'] ", Cricinfo, 2005-01-28. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.]

Pietersen scored a 96-ball 108 not out in the tied second ODI at Bloemfontein, after which the crowd turned their backs on him as he returned to the pavilion. [Miller, Andrew. " [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/england/content/story/144265.html It's a tie after a last-ball thriller] ", Cricinfo, 2005-02-02. Retrieved on 2007-05-27] This score set his ODI average at an incredible record 234.00. [ [http://www.sportstats.com.au/blognov04tojun05.html Z-score’s Cricket Stats Blog Archive, Nov 2004 to Jun 2005] . Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] [ [http://www.howstat.com/cricket/Statistics/Players/PlayerProgressSummary_ODI.asp?PlayerID=3238 HowStat! ODI Kevin Pietersen: Batting - Progressive Average and Aggregate] , HowStat. Retrieved 2007-05-28.] He made 75 at Cape Town, [Thompson, Jenny. " [http://content-www.cricinfo.com/ci/content/story/144350.html South Africa trounce England by 108 runs] ", Cricinfo, 2005-02-06. Retrieved on 2007-05-27] then at East London Pietersen made an unbeaten 100 from only 69 balls, the fastest century by an England player in a one-day match,Thompson, Jenny. " [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/england/content/story/144479.html Pietersen century all in vain] ", Cricinfo, 2005-02-09. Retrieved on 2007-05-26.] although England still lost by eight runs. In the final game at Centurion Park, Pietersen came to the wicket at 32/3 and scored 116, but again could not prevent a defeat. Pietersen ended the series, which England lost 4–1, with 454 runs in five innings, and the Player of the Series award. [" [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/4260173.stm England sign off with fourth loss] ", BBC Sport, 2005-02-13. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] [ [http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Seasons/RSA/2004-05_RSA_England_in_South_Africa_2004-05.html England in South Africa 2004/05] , Cricketarchive. Retrieved on 28 May 2007.] By the end of the series, the South African crowds had generally replaced hostility with respect for Pietersen, his final century being awarded a standing ovation. [Fraser, Angus. " [http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn4158/is_20050802/ai_n14827270 Cricket: Giles' amazing show of insecurity invites the Australians] ", "The Independent", 2005-08-02. Retrieved on 2007-02-27.]

Mixed success in Ashes build-up

Despite press speculation, Pietersen was not picked for the Tests against Bangladesh—his early season form being dogged by a foot injury [" [http://www.ecb.co.uk/domestic/england-star-shrugs-off-foot-injury,3706,EN.html Pietersen set to make his debut] ", ecb.co.uk. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] [" [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/engvban/content/story/209327.html No room for Pietersen in England squad] ", Cricinfo, 2005-05-15. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] —but with his county form improving, he was selected for the Twenty20 match against Australia at Southampton, making 34 from 18 balls and taking three catches as England won by 100 runs. [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005/AUS_IN_ENG/SCORECARDS/AUS_ENG_TWENTY-20-I_13JUN2005.html England v Australia 20:20, 13 June 2005] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27]

In the triangular ODI series against Australia and Bangladesh, Pietersen did not get to bat in the first match at The Oval as England won by 10 wickets, but scored 91 off 65 balls in the match in Bristol against Australia. [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005/OD_TOURNEYS/NWS/SCORECARDS/AUS_ENG_NWS_ODI3_19JUN2005.html England v Australia ODI, 19 June 2005] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] In the remainder of the triangular series, Pietersen scored quickly, although without other half-centuries. He finished the seven-match series with a total of 278 runs at an average of 46.33. [ [http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Events/ENG/National_Westminster_Bank_Series_2005/England_Batting.html Batting and Fielding for England in National Westminster Bank Series 2005] , Cricketarchive. Retrieved on 2007-06-05.]

Pietersen's performances sparked speculation over whether he would be brought into the Test side for The Ashes later in the summer. A BBC poll of 10 respected cricketers resulted in a minor preference for playing Pietersen and Ian Bell in the middle order, with Graham Thorpe missing out. [" [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/4110676.stm Three into two won't go] ", BBC Sport, 2005-06-20. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.]

Later in July, Pietersen played in all three matches of the (ODI) NatWest Challenge against Australia. In the final match he was the top scorer for England with 74 runs, however he was forced off the field in the third over of Australia's reply with a groin injury. [McGlashan, Andrew. " [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/engvaus/content/story/213353.html Australia show their finest timing] ", Cricinfo, 2005-06-12. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.]

2005 Ashes triumph

Speculation over when Pietersen would play for the Test team was ended in July with the announcement by the England chairman of selectors, David Graveney, that Pietersen had been selected ahead of Thorpe. [" [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/4676287.stm England drop Thorpe for Pietersen] ", BBC Sport, 2005-07-14. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] He made his debut in the first Ashes Test at Lord's, becoming the 626th player to play for the national side. [ [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/england/content/player/caps.html?country=1;class=1 England Caps] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-06-06.] Pietersen scored 57 and 64 not out as England collapsed to a heavy defeat, becoming only the fourth player to top score in both innings on debut for England, the eighth England player to score a half-century in each innings on his debut, and the third cricketer to do so at Lord's.Lynch, Steven. " [http://content-www.cricinfo.com/columns/content/story/214802.html Pietersen's double debut double] ", Cricinfo, 2005-08-01. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] In the second Test at Edgbaston he scored 71 in the first innings and 20 in the second, with England narrowly winning by 2 runs. [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005/AUS_IN_ENG/SCORECARDS/AUS_ENG_T2_04-08AUG2005.html England v Australia Second Test, 4-7 August 2005] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.]

In the drawn third Test, Pietersen struggled with 21 and 0, then scored 45 and 23 in the fourth as England went 2-1 up. [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005/AUS_IN_ENG/SCORECARDS/AUS_ENG_T3_11-15AUG2005.html England v Australia Third Test, 11-15 August 2005] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005/AUS_IN_ENG/SCORECARDS/AUS_ENG_T4_25-29AUG2005.html England v Australia Fourth Test, 25-28 August 2005] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] Under pressure to post a large score in the final Test at The Oval, Pietersen did not contribute significantly in the first innings with 14. In the second innings, Pietersen was dropped twice before reaching double figures, and with England in real trouble at 7 wickets down, went on to score his maiden Test century with a mesmorising 158, helping to secure the return of the ashes to England for the first time since the late 1980s.Collins, Sam. " [http://www.cricinfo.com/kevinpietersenzone/timeline.html Rise of a star] ", Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2005-05-28.] [Grunill, Paul. " [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/4238344.stm Oval hero Pietersen] ", BBC Sport, 2005-09-12. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] His innings included seven sixes, a record for an English player in an Ashes innings. [ [http://www.cricinfo.com/db/STATS/TESTS/BATTING/TRIVIA/BAT_MOST_SIXES_TEST.html Tests - Most Sixes in an Innings] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] Pietersen was named Man of the Match for his efforts, [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005/AUS_IN_ENG/SCORECARDS/AUS_ENG_T5_08-12SEP2005.html England v Australia Fifth Test, 8-12 September 2005] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] and finished the series as top scorer, with 473 runs over the five Tests, an average of 52.55. [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005/AUS_IN_ENG/STATS/AUS_IN_ENG_JUN-SEP2005_TEST_AVS.html Australia in England, 2005 Test Series Averages] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] However, he had a less successful series in the field, dropping six catches in the five Tests, a point he made wryly when questioned about the Australians dropping him three times on the final day. [ [http://content-www.cricinfo.com/quote/content/story/231681.html The best quotes of 2005] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] Pietersen was given an ECB "central contract" to reflect his place in the national side. [" [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/england/content/story/214969.html Pietersen awarded central contract] ", Cricinfo, 2005-08-03. Retrieved on 2007-05-27]

Less rewarding winter tour

Pietersen had a less successful time in the three Test matches against Pakistan, which England lost 2–0. He made little impact in the first and third Tests, his highest score being 34. [ [http://www.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005-06/ENG_IN_PAK/SCORECARDS/ENG_PAK_T1_12-16NOV2005.html Pakistan v England First Test, 12-16 November 2005] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-29.] [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005-06/ENG_IN_PAK/SCORECARDS/ENG_PAK_T3_29NOV-03DEC2005.html Pakistan v England Third Test, 29 November–3 December 2005] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-30.] He fared better in the second, however, making his second Test century in the first innings. [" [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/4457390.stm Pietersen & Bell hit England tons] ", BBC Sport, 2005-11-22. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] He was also performing well in the one-day series with two explosive innings of 56 from 39 balls to help England win the first ODI, and 28 from 27 balls in the second. [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005-06/ENG_IN_PAK/SCORECARDS/ENG_PAK_ODI1_10DEC2005.html Pakistan v England First ODI, 10 December 2005] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-29.] [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005-06/ENG_IN_PAK/SCORECARDS/ENG_PAK_ODI2_12DEC2005.html Pakistan v England Second ODI, 12 December 2005] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-30.] The quick-scoring innings in the second ODI was to be Pietersen's last on the tour. A rib injury sustained in the first ODI proved too painful throughout the second, and Pietersen returned to England to recover fully for the tour of India. [" [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/pakveng/content/story/229473.html Pietersen forced home by rib injury] ", Cricinfo, 2005-12-13. Retrieved on 2007-05-30.]

In March 2006, Pietersen played in the three Tests against India, which England drew 1–1. His 87 in the second innings of the first match came during England's acceleration period, helping push the required target over 300. [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005-06/ENG_IN_IND/SCORECARDS/ENG_IND_T1_01-05MAR2006_BBB-COMMS.html India v England, First Test, 1–5 March 2005 Ball-by-ball commentary] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-30.] England then declared overnight, and India successfully batted out the final day to secure a draw. This half-century was followed by another in the first innings of the second Test. The second innings was not so good, facing just 13 balls before being given out caught behind off a Harbhajan Singh delivery. The unhappy Pietersen was later fined 30 percent of his match fee for shaking his head and showing signs of dissent." [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/england/content/story/240601.html Pietersen fined for dissent] ", Cricinfo, 2006-03-13. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] "Replays demonstrated that the ball that had dismissed him had brushed his forearm, not his glove, before ballooning up into the hands of Rahul Dravid at slip. But umpire Darrell Hair gave him out for 4 as England collapsed on the fourth afternoon." Pietersen posted scores of 39 and 7 in the final Test, a match England won comfortably after a dismal 100 all out in India's second visit to the crease. [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005-06/ENG_IN_IND/SCORECARDS/ENG_IND_T3_18-22MAR2006.html India v England, Third Test, 18-22 March 2006] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-30.]

In the one-day series, which England lost 5–1, he was top scorer for England in four out of the five matches he played, and had the highest average of any player with 58.20. [ [http://usa.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005-06/ENG_IN_IND/STATS/ENG_IN_IND_FEB-APR2006_ODI_AVS.html England in India, 2005-06 One-day Series Averages] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-29.] His 71 in the second ODI took him past 1,000 ODI runs, equalling Viv Richards' record of 21 innings to reach this total. [ [http://www.cricinfo.com/db/STATS/ODIS/BATTING/FASTEST_ODI_CAREER_RUNS/ODI_FASTEST_TO_1000_RUNS.html ODIs - Fastest to 1000 Career Runs] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.]

ri Lanka and Pakistan in England, 2006

In May 2006, Pietersen matched his highest Test score of 158 in the first match against Sri Lanka, [McGlashan, Andrew. " [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/england/content/story/246911.html Mahmood and Pietersen leave Sri Lanka in tatters] ", Cricinfo, 2006-05-12. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] and followed it with 142 in the second Test. [McGlashan, Andrew. " [http://content-www.cricinfo.com/engvsl/content/current/story/248428.html Bowlers build on Pietersen's stunning century] ", Cricinfo, 2006-05-26. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] This took him past the milestone of 1,000 Test runs, in his 12th Test match, and he became the first batsman since Graham Gooch in 1990 to score a century in three successive Test innings on English soil. [Kumar, Manish. " [http://www.cricketzone.com/news/news_columns/2007-03-08-98.html Will England rise from the Ashes for the World Cup?] ", cricketzone.com, 2007-03-08. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] This performance moved Pietersen into the top ten of the ICC cricket ratings, as he was named the England (Test Match) Player of the Series. [ [http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Seasons/ENG/2006_ENG_Sri_Lanka_in_England_2006.html Sri Lanka in England 2006] , Cricketarchive. Retrieved 28 May 2007.] [" [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/5026308.stm Pietersen moves into Test top 10] ", BBC Sport, 2006-05-29. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] On the first day of the third Test against Pakistan, Pietersen reached his fifth Test century with an overnight score of 104. Although Pietersen retired hurt shortly after reaching three figures, due to cramp, he returned to the crease the next morning and went on to top score in England's first innings total of 515 with 135 runs from 169 balls. [McGlashan, Andrew. " [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/engvpak/content/story/255643.html Yousuf leads Pakistan reply after Bell's third ton] ", Cricinfo, 2006-08-05. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] Pietersen bowled his first delivery in Test match cricket on 4 June, against Sri Lanka. [ [http://content-aus.cricinfo.com/engvsl/engine/match/225266.html England v Sri Lanka Third Test, 2-5 June 2006] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] His first Test wicket came against Pakistan later in the summer when Kamran Akmal got a thin edge through to Geraint Jones. [McGlashan, Andrew. " [http://content-aus.cricinfo.com/engvpak/content/story/253539.html Pakistan ride on Yousuf special] ", Cricinfo, 2006-07-15. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.]

Later in June, Pietersen scored 17 in the Twenty20 International as England lost by 2 runs to Sri Lanka. [ [http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/85/85632.html England v Sri Lanka, Twenty20] , Cricketarchive, 2006-06-15. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] The twenty over match against Pakistan was no better, Pietersen being bowled by Mohammad Asif for a golden duck as Pakistan helped themselves to a five-wicket victory. [ [http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/86/86003.html Pakistan v England, Twenty20] , Cricketarchive, 2006-08-28. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.]

England in Australia, 2006–07

In the much anticipated Ashes series in Australia, Pietersen was widely judged to be England's best player, scoring 490 runs in five matches and averaging over 50. He started well with a defiant 92 in the first Test despite England losing by 277 runs, [" [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/6185580.stm Australia v England - 1st Test] ", BBC Sport, 2006-11-27. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] and then backed up his good form with a century in the second Test in Adelaide,sharing a 310-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Paul Collingwood. When he was eventually run out, his first reaction was to "giggle" because it was the third time he had scored exactly 158 runs (at that point, his highest Test score). [Miller, Andrew. " [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/ausveng/content/story/270774.html Pietersen and Collingwood share the limelight] ", Cricinfo, 2006-12-02. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] However, even Pietersen seemed disheartened by the end of the series, which England lost 5–0. [Miller, Andrew. " [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/england/content/story/275400.html Pietersen the best of a poor bunch] ", Cricinfo, 2007-01-06. Retrieved on 2007-01-12.]

In the Twenty20 match, Pietersen was run out on 11, as England lost the match by 77 runs. [ [http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/98/98972.html Australia v England, Twenty20] . Cricketarchive, 2007-01-09. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] For a powerful hitter, Pietersen has not posted a large score in the specialised twenty-over format, averaging 15.50. In the first One Day International of the 2006–07 Commonwealth Bank Series, on 12 January at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Pietersen was injured when a ball bowled by Glenn McGrath hit him on the ribs. Despite continuing his innings in some discomfort, making 82, X-rays revealed a fracture and Pietersen was forced to miss the rest of the series. [Coverdale, Brydon. " [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/cbs/content/current/story/276237.html Pietersen out of tour with fractured rib] ", Cricinfo, 2007-01-12. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.]

Career in 2007

2007 World Cup

In the 2007 Cricket World Cup, Pietersen crafted 104 runs off 122 balls against Australia in the Super Eight stage of the tournament. It was the first World Cup century by an Englishman since 1996, and the first ever against Australia. [Rajesh, S and Gopalakrishna, HR. " [http://content-aus.cricinfo.com/wc2007/content/current/story/289672.html How Tait and Hogg turned it around] ", Cricinfo, 2007-04-08. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] He made three half-centuries, scoring 60 runs from 92 balls against New Zealand, [ [http://content-www.cricinfo.com/wc2007/engine/match/247463.html England v New Zealand, 16 March 2007] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] 56 runs from 72 balls against Kenya, [ [http://content-sl.cricinfo.com/wc2007/engine/match/247479.html England v Kenya, 24 March 2007] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] and 58 runs from 80 balls against Sri Lanka. [ [http://content-www.cricinfo.com/stlucia/engine/match/247489.html England v Sri Lanka, 4 April 2007] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] His efforts in the World Cup helped him achieve the status of International Cricket Council number-one ranked batsman in the world for ODIs; [" [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/6494577.stm Pietersen top of world rankings] ", BBC Sport, 2007-03-26. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] however, England did not reach the semi-finals. In England's final match of the World Cup against the West Indies, Pietersen made 100 from 91 balls, and effected the run-out of retiring captain Brian Lara. [Lillywhite, Jamie. " [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/6576083.stm West Indies v England] ", BBC Sport, 2007-04-21. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] This century took him past 2000 ODI runs, in doing so equalling the record 51 matches set by Zaheer Abbas. He finished the tournament with 444 runs, at an average of 55.5, and was described as shining in the England team "like a 100 watt bulb in a room full of candles". [Goughy, Kev. " [http://www.cricketweb.net/article.php?CategoryIDAuto=4&NewsIDAuto=3885 Team of the 2007 World Cup] ", cricketweb.net, 2007-05-15. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.]

West Indies in England

Having scored a century in the first Test against the West Indies at Lord's, [ [http://content-www.cricinfo.com/engvwi/engine/current/match/258459.html England v West Indies First Test, 17-21 May 2007] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-05-27] Pietersen posted his highest score of 226 in the second Test at Headingley, surpassing his previous best of 158 which he had achieved three times. [" [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/6695535.stm Test-best score thrills Pietersen] ", BBC Sport, 2007-05-26. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] With this score, Pietersen moved ahead of Everton Weekes and Viv Richards to be the batsman with the second-highest run-total out of his first 25 Tests (behind Don Bradman). It is also the highest Test score for England since Graham Gooch scored 333 against India in 1990. [Mitchell, Kevin. " [http://sport.guardian.co.uk/cricket/story/0,,2089157,00.html?gusrc=rss&feed=7 Peerless Pietersen sets up drubbing] ". "The Guardian", 27 May 2007. Retrieved on 28 May 2007.] This innings subjected the West Indies to an innings and 283 runs defeat, their largest against any team. Pietersen, the Man of the Match, said, "I believe the recipe for success is hard work. I've been criticised for throwing my wicket away, and I tried to make it count here". [ " [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/engvwi/engine/current/match/258460.html?innings=3;view=commentary Commentary: England v West Indies at Leeds, 25-28 May 2007] ". Cricinfo, 2007-05-28. Retrieved on 2007-06-06.]

In the third Test at Old Trafford, scoring 68 in the second innings, Pietersen lost his wicket in a bizarre dismissal when West Indian all-rounder Dwayne Bravo delivered a bouncer which knocked Pietersen's helmet off his head and onto his stumps. He is only the fourth batsman in Test cricket to be dismissed "hit wicket" as a result of headgear falling onto the stumps. [Brett, Oliver. " [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/6737017.stm West Indies v England] ", BBC Sport, 2007-06-09. Retrieved on 2007-06-10.] This score took him past the 8500 first-class runs mark, and 2,500 runs in Test cricket. [ [http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/103/103087/103087_bbb.html England v West Indies 3rd Test match] , 2007-06-11, Cricketarchive. Retrieved on 2007-06-11.]

In contrast, Pietersen's batting was poor in the following single innings matches; he scored a total of 77 runs in five matches (two Twenty20 and three ODI), recording a second-ball duck in the final ODI. [ [http://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/103/103096.html England v West Indies 3rd ODI] , 2007-07-07, Cricketarchive. Retrieved on 2007-07-07.] He subsequently fell to second in the official One Day International batting rankings, behind Ricky Ponting. [" [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/6121940.stm Pietersen relinquishes top place] ", 2007-07-08, BBC Sport. Retrieved on 2007-07-09.] Pietersen himself has commented that his lack of recent form is a result of "fatigue", and has reiterated his calls for a less "hectic" match schedule." [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/6294522.stm Pietersen blames fatigue for form] ", BBC Sport. Retrieved on 2007-07-12.]

India tour and Twenty20 Championship

Pietersen found some form in the first Test against India, with a knock of 134 in the second innings to set up a potential England victory. Pietersen described this as his best century, in very testing conditions. [Miller, Andrew " [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/ci/content/current/story/303195.html 'I'd probably rate that as No. 1'] ", 2007-07-22, Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-07-23.] After two low scores in the second Test, Pietersen scored his 10th Test Century in the third and final Test at the Oval, helping England to draw the game with 101. [ [http://content-www.cricinfo.com/engvind/engine/match/258470.html England v India Third Test, 9-13 August 2007] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-08-15]

Pietersen was also picked for and played in the Twenty20 Championship in South Africa. In England's first game against Zimbabwe on 13 September, Pietersen hit 79 runs off 37 balls, his highest Twenty20 score, including four sixes and seven fours in an English total of 188-9. England won the match by 50 runs, however this was to be Pietersen's largest contribution in the competition. He scored another 99 runs over four more matches, ending the series with an average of 35.60. He also scored the most England fours (17) and jointly held the record for the most England sixes (6) with Owais Shah. He also held the highest strike rate of any England batsman. [ [http://stats.cricinfo.com/twenty20wc/engine/records/averages/batting_bowling_by_team.html?id=3115;team=1;type=tournament "Twenty20 World Championship - England batting averages"] CricInfo retrieved 6 April 2008]

ri Lanka 2007

Pietersen scored 50 in England's opening game in Sri Lanka against the Sri Lankan Cricket XI, [ [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/slveng/engine/match/291214.html "Tour Match: Sri Lanka Cricket XI v England"] , 2007-09-29, Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2008-06-24.] but it took until the fourth ODI for Pietersen to find form, scoring 63 not out as England won their first series in Sri Lanka. [McGlashan, Andrew (2007). [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/slveng/content/story/314823.html Cook serves up series glory for England] , 2007-10-10, Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2008-06-24.] This form was still fluctuating in the warm-up matches for the Test series, scoring 4, 1 and 59 against the Sri Lankan Cricket XI. This run continued in the Test matches, the only highlight being 45 not out to secure a draw in the 2nd Test. In the first innings, Pietersen's dismissal was to be the source of much controversy. He edged his fifth ball to Chamara Silva at slip, who flicked the ball up for wicketkeeper Kumar Sangakkara to complete the catch. The two on-field umpires conferred overthe validity of the catch, as it was unclear whether the ball had touched the ground "prior" to Silva flicking the ball up. Daryl Harper, standing at the bowler's end gave the decision that the wicket had been taken, but while walking off the field, Pietersen saw a replay on the big screen and questioned the validity of the decision. This led for calls for similar catches to be referred to the third (TV) umpire, but this can only take place if the on-field umpires have not made a decision. [ [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/slveng/content/story/324566.html Vaughan critical of Pietersen dismissal] , 2007-12-09, Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2008-06-24.] Pietersen passed 3,000 Test runs during the series, becoming the fastest player (by time) to do so, [http://stats.cricinfo.com/ci/content/records/283177.html Test matches - Fastest to 3000 runs] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2008-06-24.] [Although Pietersen reached 3,000 runs in under 3 years, he took 63 innings to do so; 18 people have reached 3,000 in 63 innings or less.] but only averaged 25.20, and failed to score a half century in a series for the first time. [Hughes, Simon, (2008). [http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/tms/2007/12/england_series_rankings_1.shtml "England test series ratings"] , BBC, Retrieved on 2008-01-02.]

Career in 2008

New Zealand tours (home and away)

On England's tour against New Zealand, Pietersen averaged 33.00 in the ODI series, with one score of 50 in the tied 4th match; England lost the series 3-1. [ [http://stats.cricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/averages/batting_bowling_by_team.html?id=3309;team=1;type=series Batting and bowling averages: England in New Zealand ODI Series, 2007/08 - England] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2008-06-24.] He also made a top score of 43 in the first of two comfortable Twenty20 matches. [ [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/300435.html First IT20: New Zealand v England] , 2008-02-05, Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2008-06-24.] Pietersen had a quiet first two test matches, making little impression with the bat. However, in the first innings of the Napier Test he rescued England from a disastrous start of 3-4, guiding them towards 259 with 129, his 11th Test century. [ [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/300444.html 3rd Test: New Zealand v England] , 2008-03-26, Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2008-06-24.]

New Zealand then came to tour England and Pietersen again struggled in the first two Test matches, running himself out on 42 when seemingly well-set in the second match.test match of the subsequent home series against New Zealand, scoring in the single figures. In the second, he scored 26 in the first innings, then ran himself out on 42 having looked well set. [Lillywhite, Jamie (2008). " [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/7420284.stm Strauss ton inspires England win] ", 2008-05-26, BBC Sport. Retrieved on 2008-05-26] He struck a century in the third Test, forming a valuable partnership with Tim Ambrose, making a crucial 115. [Lillywhite, Jamie (2008). " [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/7432111.stm Pietersen century rescues England] ", 2008-06-05, BBC Sport. Retrieved on 2008-06-06.] Pietersen hit a winning 42 not out in the Twenty20 match.

The switch-hit

In the first ODI of the NatWest series, Pietersen hit two sixes by "switch-hitting" en route to 110 not out. While facing the bowling of medium pace Scott Styris, Pietersen turned his body around and switched hands (effectively batting as a left-hander) hitting two sixes over cover and long off. Because Pietersen not only reversed his hand position (as some batsman do while playing the reverse sweep), but changed his stance by rotating his body, these "switch-hit" shots were immediately followed by calls to outlaw them from the game. [Luke, Will (2008). " [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/engvnz/content/story/354876.html Pietersen stars in crushing win] ", 2008-06-15, Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2006-06-24.] Although a similar shot was played when Pietersen reverse-swept Muttiah Muralitharan for six in Sri Lanka in 2006, he only switched hands and executed "the switch" after the ball was bowled, and not before, as in this case.

Several commentators claim that because Pietersen changed from being a right-handed to a left-handed batsman as the bowler approached his delivery stride, he was gaining an unfair advantage. Gideon Haigh claimed that "A bowler must advise a batsman when he's changing direction, why should the batsmen not; given that where the bowler's aiming will depend on the placement of the off stump". Ian Healy seconds this by saying "It just should be outlawed straightaway. If you want to hit to one side of the field, you've got to do it in a cross fashion, and not swap the way you're facing or your grip. Otherwise you are going to start to allow the bowlers to go round the wicket, over the wicket, and keep swapping during their run-ups." This ideal was echoed by former fast-bowler Michael Holding, who rather than calling for the shot to be banned, advocated the latter scenario whereby bowlers do not have to inform the umpire, or batsman, of a change of delivery. [ [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/magazine/content/story/355276.html The shots that rang around the world] , 2008-06-16, Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2008-06-24.]

Pietersen countered these claims by saying:

"That's ridiculous, absolutely stupid. The reverse-sweep has been part of the game for however long. I am just fortunate that I am able to hit it a bit further. Everybody wants brand new ideas, new inventions and new shots. That is a new shot played today and people should be saying it's a new way to go. There are new things happening for cricket at the moment and people shouldn't be criticising it all the time." [ [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/engvnz/content/story/354980.html Pietersen defends switch-hitting] , 2008-06-16, Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2008-06-24] .]

Another citation for the shot being outlawed was that the possibility of being out LBW ("a player is out LBW if...the ball pitches in line between wicket and wicket or on the off side of the striker's wicket") is removed, as the off side become the leg side and vice versa. [In simple terms, a player is not LBW if the ball pitches outside the leg stump.] The shots were considered by the MCC, governors of the game, who came to the conclusion that the shot was legal, believing that the LBW law (which continues "The off side of the striker's wicket shall be determined by the striker's stance at the moment the ball comes into play for that delivery") adequately covers the scenario. [The ball comes into play when the bowler starts his run-up.] [Marylebone Cricket Club, 2003. " [http://www.lords.org/laws-and-spirit/laws-of-cricket/laws/law-36-leg-before-wicket,62,AR.html Law 36 (Leg before wicket)] ". Retrieved on 2008-06-24.] They cited the variations bowlers can make, such as bowling a googly or a slower ball, and also the inherent risk in the shot to the batsman, in the justification of their decision. [" [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/7456149.stm MCC approves Pietersen switch hit] ", 2008-06-17, BBC Sport. Retrieved on 2008-06-18.]

There are still calls for further review of the stroke, with Jonathan Agnew giving a scenario in which a right-handed batsman can take his stance as a left-hander, then switch stance as the bowler runs in, thus being able to kick away any balls that land outside his now off stump. He also calls for the wide law to be adjusted in one-day cricket, as bowlers are penalised for most deliveries that pass down the leg side. [Agnew, Jonathan, 2008. " [http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/tms/2008/06/laws_should_change_for_switchh.shtml Laws should change for switch-hitters] ", 2008-06-18, BBC. Retrieved on 2008-06-24.]

England captaincy

Pietersen captained England in the fourth ODI against New Zealand after Paul Collingwood was banned for four games for a slow over-rate during the previous match. England's unofficial vice-captain since Collingwood's appointment in June 2007, Pietersen was named as the stand-in captain for three further matches in August. [" [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/7476025.stm Pietersen named stand in captain] ", 2008-06-26, BBC Sport. Retrieved on 2008-06-26.]

url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/7540228.stm |accessdate=2008-08-04] Following the news that he had been made England Test and ODI captain, Pietersen paid tribute to both outgoing captains but announced that he would look to captain the team in his own style.

Since being appointed as captain, Pietersen has led England to 5 successive victories in 1 test match and 4 one-day internationals - all against South Africa.

Achievements

Awards

Pietersen gained several awards for his performances in the 2005 season. He was named both the ICC ODI Player of the Year and Emerging Player of the Year in 2005," [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/4326586.stm Flintoff shares ICC player award] ", BBC Sport, 2005-10-11. Retrieved on 2007-05-27.] and was one of the five Wisden Cricketers of the Year (alongside team mates Simon Jones and Matthew Hoggard) for his role in the successful Ashes series against Australia." [http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/england/content/story/243894.html Flintoff named as the leading player of the year] ", Cricinfo, 2006-04-11. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] Along with the rest of the England team, he was decorated in the 2006 New Year Honours list, being awarded the MBE for his role in the successful Ashes series. [" [http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/england/4625530.stm Ashes heroes get Palace Honours] ", BBC Sport, 2006-02-09. Retrieved on 2007-05-28.] He also played for the ICC World XI in the ICC Super Series 2005 against Australia. [ [http://uk.cricinfo.com/db/ARCHIVE/2005-06/SUPERS/SUPERS_OCT2005_ICC-XI-SQUAD.html ICC World XI Squads] , Cricinfo. Retrieved on 2007-06-06.]

Test match performance

Records:
* He has the second highest run-total from his first 25 Tests (behind Don Bradman).
* Fourth Englishman to top score in both innings of debut Test.
* He is one of only twenty-three players to have a peak ICC batting rating over 900. [ [http://www.lgiccrankings.com/test/batting/all-time-ranking.php LG ICC Best-Ever Test Batting Ratings] , ICC Cricket Rankings. Retrieved on 2007-07-23.]

Test centuries:

One Day International performance

Records:
* Fastest batsman to reach 1000 and 2000 runs.
* Fastest century by an England player (69 balls) (v SA, 2005).

One Day International centuries:

Twenty20 International performance

Twenty20 debut: vs Australia, Rose Bowl, 13 June 2005.

Notes

External links

* [http://www.kevinpietersen.com/ Kevin Pietersen's Official Website]
*cricinfo|ref=england/content/player/19296.html

Persondata
NAME= Pietersen, Kevin
ALTERNATIVE NAMES=
SHORT DESCRIPTION=English cricketer
DATE OF BIRTH=27 June 1980
PLACE OF BIRTH=Pietermaritzburg, Natal, South Africa
DATE OF DEATH=
PLACE OF DEATH=