The most naturally gifted England batsman since Denis Compton — 8,181 Test runs and four Ashes series victories before a spectacular falling out with the ECB ended his career controversially.
Kevin Pietersen scored 8,181 Test runs for England — the fourth-highest total in England's history — at an average of 47.28. His combination of extraordinary natural talent, physical power and innovative shot-making was the finest batting England produced in a generation. His 158 in the deciding Oval Test of the 2005 Ashes — arguably the finest innings under pressure in modern English cricket — was his defining moment. His career ended abruptly amid controversy with the ECB.
His 158 at The Oval in 2005 — scored to save the Ashes — included a deliberate assault on Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne, whom he reverse-swept repeatedly.
Did You Know?Career Honours
- 2005 Ashes
- 4 Ashes series wins
- 104 Tests, 8,181 runs, average 47.28