Kevin Pieterson Smashes South Africa: 92 Not Out

Well, we all wondered whether Kevin Pieterson could cope with the England captaincy and being their best batsman on top of it.

I can tell you that it's so far, so good for England.

England thrashed South Africa at last night's day-night one day international at Headingly.

Kevin Pieterson led England to 275/4 in their 50 overs with a strong 90 not out from the skipper. KP was joined at the crease by Freddie Flintoff and together the pair put on a stand of 158 that was the difference between the two sides.

The Proteas were unable to chase down the target and were bowled out for 255 just inside the 50 overs.

Jacque Kallis top-scored for the South Africans with a half century, but they'd have needed the experienced batsman to kick on if they were to have any chance in this one.

England were helped with contributions from Matty Prior (42), and Ian Bell (35), as well as some pretty standard bowling from the Protea's attack.

Makaya Ntini, Andrew Nel, and Phillander bowled a total of 28 overs for no wickets.

Hardly match-winning form!

Port Elizabeth's Johan Botha took the spinners slot in the SA side and took 1/33 in a respectable performance that included 26 with the bat.

South Africa probably fancied chasing down 275, but they never really got going. Every player in the side got a start but failed to make an impact on the scoreboard except Herschelle Gibbs with 37.

Pietersen's decision to bring back Steve Harmison paid off again with the pace man ending Graeme Smith's night and finishing with figures of 2/43.

Not even Stuart Broad's extremely generous bowling (1/61) could help the Proteas.

King KP even got into the attack with 2/22 in a true man of the match performance. His partner for the day, Andrew Flintoff, took 2/46.

So a great victory for England. South Africa will come back stronger and expect a tighter second game of the series.

England never missed Ryan Sidebottom, and the choice of 29-year-old Harmison to replace him has again done the side wonders.

Hats off to Kevin Pieterson as his decision making has so far been spot on and English Cricket is looking pretty healthy.

England lead the five match series 1-0, but it's not over until the fat lady sings.

Or is it Graeme Smith?