Kevin Pietersen 227: The Adelaide Masterclass Revisited

Blood, sweat, rivalry, and heartbreak these are the ingredients that have made the Ashes one of cricket’s most thrilling spectacles for over a century. Whenever England and Australia clash on that iconic 22-yard pitch, the excitement reaches new heights, as the red-ball action unfolds with unparalleled drama. 

The Test series is so much more than just a battle on the field; it’s a chance for players to carve out their own legacies. Kevin Pietersen certainly did that, delivering a stunning double hundred that etched his name in Ashes history. Double hundreds are always the icing on the cake in the longest format of the game, but the grand stage of the Ashes made this one truly unforgettable. Let’s take a moment to relive Pietersen’s incredible feat in the Ashes. 

Pietersen’s Ashes double century that still stands the test of time

Adelaide has witnessed many heroes, but none quite like Kevin Pietersen on that remarkable day. The Ashes series of 2010-11 was a classic for England; the second Test match laid the groundwork for their outstanding performance. After a disappointing draw in the first match, the fierce rivals met again in Adelaide, and the world was treated to a dramatic showdown. 

Batting first, the Australian team faced a significant hurdle, finishing their innings at just 245 runs. As the Aussie bowlers took to the field, they aimed to assert their dominance on home soil, but the brilliance of the English side turned the tide. 

When England came to bat, they encountered an early blow as captain Andrew Strauss was dismissed for a mere one run. However, Alastair Cook and Jonathan Trott formed a crucial partnership that provided a much-needed boost. But when Kevin Pietersen stepped onto the pitch, the Aussie bowlers were in for a surprise. 

Pietersen arrived like a whirlwind, catching Australia completely off guard. Facing a fierce Aussie attack, he unleashed a breathtaking half-century off just 77 balls. As the Australian bowlers sought to regain control, Pietersen stunned them with a remarkable century off 158 deliveries. 

In front of his blazing form, the opposing team looked utterly defeated, and Piertersen tightened his grip as he crossed the 150-run mark in just 210 balls. With an air of exceptional dominance, a well-deserved double hundred was within reach, and he seized the opportunity. In 283 balls, he delivered an impressive Test double hundred against Australia. 

By forming some key partnerships with his teammates, he significantly boosted England’s total. Before Doherty finally got him out, he played a masterful innings of 227 runs off 308 balls, which included 33 boundaries and a six. 

Thanks to that remarkable performance, England set a formidable total of 620 runs, putting the Australians on the back foot. When the Aussies came back to bat in their second innings, England's bowlers kept them to just 304 runs, clinching a resounding victory by an innings and 71 runs. 

Throughout his 104-match Test career wearing the prestigious England jersey, he has left the world in awe with countless unforgettable innings. Even after 15 years, his 227 against Australia in the Ashes remains his highest score in the longest format. More than just a number, that innings sparked England’s confidence and fueled their dominance on Australian soil.