Cricket News

There was only one burning topic of conversation at the close of the first day's play at the Divisional Stadium - Kevin Pietersen's voodoo-like curse by the Slow Left-Armers Union

James Tredwell built a case for inclusion as England's second spinner in next week's first Test, but it was the young Middlesex seamer Steven Finn who really caught the eye

Abdul Razzaq produced a blistering innings of 46 not out from 18 balls as Pakistan squared the two-match Twenty20 series in dramatic style in Dubai

Paul Collingwood declared that he was "excited" by the manner of England's seven-wicket victory in the first Twenty20 against Pakistan in Dubai

Kevin Pietersen produced arguably his most composed innings since his return from Achilles surgery, while Eoin Morgan continued the improvisatory form as Pakistan were overwhelmed by an unbeaten 112-run partnership

Andy Flower has backed Craig Kieswetter, the 22-year-old wicketkeeper batsman, to push for a place in the senior squad having impressed for England Lions during their tour of UAE

Graeme Smith, the South African captain, and Morne Morkel, one half of his hostile new-ball pair, have climbed to career-best rankings after South Africa's resounding victory in the fourth Test at the Wanderers.

Kevin Pietersen's performances against South Africa were always going to be analysed in great depth - it has been the story of his career - but his poor returns in Cape Town have turned the spotlight squarely on him ahead of the series decider at the Wand

Andrew Miller previews the fourth and final Test between England and South Africa at Johannesburg

There was no way Andrew Strauss was going to reveal England's plans for the second Test against South Africa at Kingsmead, but an unchanged line-up is an increasing possibility.

Kevin Pietersen has backed the actions of Jonathan Trott in standing his ground during their run-out mix-up at Centurion, which ended a partnership of 145 that was taking England towards a comfortable draw in the opening Test against South Africa

The ICC should be very grateful to England. Whether they are winning, losing or drawing, it's rarely dull

The plays of the day from the fifth and final day at Centurion

Kevin Pietersen injected England's innings with some much-needed confidence following the early dismissal of both overnight batsmen

Ashley Giles, England's selector and former left-arm spinner, had urged England to stand up the South Africans when the Test series begins on Wednesday

Graeme Smith, the South African captain, has warned Kevin Pietersen he faces a hostile reception when the first Test begins at Centurion on Wednesday

With one innings left before the first Test Kevin Pietersen finally found form as the England batsmen enjoyed a good day against the South African Invitational XI at Buffalo Park

Kevin Pietersen is thrilled to have Graham Gooch's help as he fights to regain form ahead of the opening Test against South Africa on December 16.

Despite a slow start in South Africa, Kevin Pietersen is not going to burden himself with undue pressure ahead of the Test series.

Graham Gooch, England's new batting coach, has no concerns about Kevin Pietersen's indifferent form and insists that Pietersen just needs more time after returning from injury.