Eng vs NZ 3rd Test Live Score - Pietersen hit a century, Eng-240/7

Kevin Petersen of Engkand hit a brilliant century 129 runs on the first day of the 3rd and final test against New Zealand on Sturday, 22nd March 2008 at McLean Park, Napier.Kevin Pietersen ended England's century drought and prevented a complete capitulation on day one of the third and deciding Test.

The Hampshire batsman hit a superb 129 after nearly five hours at the crease - becoming the first member of England's top six to hit a first innings century for eight Test matches - after New Zealand's inexperienced attack made a mockery of pre-match predictions.

The tourists' top order again failed to deliver and were reduced to four for three before Pietersen's brilliantly defiant ton, which included 12 fours and a six, helped a recovery to 240 for seven at the close at McLean Park, winning the toss and deciding to bat first on a flat-looking wicket. It was Pietersen's first century in six Tests and his first time past 50 in 10 Test innings.

England named an unchanged side and entered the final Test with all the momentum having won the second Test at Wellington.

New Zealand were without seamer Kyle Mills (knee) and all-rounder Jacob Oram (hip) forcing the selection of debutants Tim Southee and Grant Elliott.