LCC Broadcast News Room

First Test, Kingston (Jamaica)  --  4th - 8th February  --  Start time 15:00 GMT each day

England 236-5 v West Indies

England's ex-captain Kevin Pieterson spared his country's blushes yesterday after a stuttering performance by the tourists in Jamaica.

His knock of 97, including a partnership of 86 with Andrew Flintoff (43 not out), steadied an England side who were reeling at 30-2 when Pieterson came to the crease.

England won the toss but soon came under intense pressure from West Indies' opening bowlers.

New captain Andrew Strauss fell first for 7 and was soon followed by Alastair Cook (4), who will surely be worried by his own lack of form.  

It was then up to Pieterson to rescue his side, first with Ian Bell (28) and then Paul Collingwood (16).

But it was the partnership with Flintoff which drew the plaudits, and it will now be up to the Lancashire all-rounder to pick up where he left off when the first Test gets back underway later.

He will resume his innings with Matt Prior (27 not out) as England look to tip the balance of this match back in their favour.

You can follow the match LIVE on this website, as we'll be bringing you score updates throughout the afternoon.

LINKS

Match Scorecard (BBC)

Pieterson Defends Shot Decision (BBC)

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