Ashes Rewind: Kevin Pietersen arrives on the big stage
Kevin Pietersen acknowledges the crowd after his maiden Test hundred against Australia in September 2005. (Source: Reuters)
Born in South Africa, playing for England. Kevin Pietersen’s international career was never easy.
Soon after he made his ODI debut in 2005, Pietersen smashed three centuries against South Africa and in return was booed by the crowd. But international cricketers know how to deal with situations and continue doing what they do best.
It was July 2005, and Pietersen was handed the England Test cap, during the Ashes. Pressure was immense on the 25-year old, and it brought the best out of him.
He hit a half century in the second innings of his career. A couple of half centuries followed but the recognition didn’t come until both the teams reached The Oval for the final Test. With an eye on the Urn, England had to fend off the Aussie challenge.
2-1 up in the series, England were searching for the knockout blow and in came Pietersen’s maiden Test hundred. A cracking 158 at a strike rate of 84. The stylish right-hander stamped his authority when he dismissed Shane Warne to all parts of the park.
Here’s a look at KP’s entertaining knock: