England seals the series in convincing manner
Pietersen hit 111 not out off 98 balls
© AFP
After more than three years in his ODI career Kevin Pieterson hailed his first century as England took an indisputable 3-0 lead in the four-match series against Pakistan with a vigorous nine wicket win at Dubai Sport City on Saturday.
Pietersen hit 111 not out off 98 balls, the first time he had crossed fifty on England's tour of the UAE, as Alastair Cook's side turned things upside down for Pakistan who had defeated the tourists 3-0 in the Test series.
Cook was on a chance to make his third consective ODI century but fell on 80, however, he put on 170 with Pietersen for the first wicket, the best opening stand for England against Pakistan.
A target of 223 was never in doubt despite Cook falling caught behind to Saeed Ajmal.
Eoin Morgan assisted Pietersen make his first three-figure score since his knock against India in November 2008, and closed out the match with 76 balls left to play.
Steven Finn and Stuart Broad both took three wickets and did the damage with the ball after their fine early bursts had reduced Pakistan to 50-4.
But a composed 50 from Umar Akmal and an entertaining 51 from Shahid Afridi for a while threatened to bring back Pakistan's confidence until Broad and James Anderson eliminated the threat.
Finn had claimed four wickets in the first two ODI games and Pakistan's batsmen had trouble playing him again.
© Cricket Companion
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