Pietersen hits century on debut as captain

Enlarge Photo England's Kevin Pietersen gestures after reaching his century at the Oval on the second day... Slideshow: Day in pictures: 8th August 2008

Fri, Aug 8 11:56 PM

LONDON (Reuters) - Kevin Pietersen celebrated his first innings as England captain with a century, leading the hosts to a 122-run first-innings lead over South Africa after the second day of the fourth test at The Oval on Friday.

South Africa, bowled out for 194 in the first innings, were 37 for one at the close in reply to England's 316.

James Anderson trapped skipper Graeme Smith lbw for nought in the first over. Neil McKenzie was nine not out at stumps and Hashim Amla unbeaten on 26.

The swashbuckling Pietersen, five days into the skipper's job, rode his luck and was dropped twice but also hit 15 fours before falling for 100 two balls after reaching his century.

He was removed by paceman Makhaya Ntini, who finished with five for 94.

South Africa fought back after tea, taking four wickets before a lively cameo from recalled Steve Harmison, who followed up Thursday's fine bowling display with 49 not out with the bat, his highest test score.

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