Top Performer

England had all but lost the plot after giving away solid foundations in the fifth and sixth One-Dayers to India, who bounced back with a vengeance in the seven-match series.

India also managed to chase down a huge 316 posted by the hosts in the penultimate ODI, which saw the England captain's hopes deflated after the defeat.

But when it came down to the decider, England pulled it off once again with a brilliant performance from their bowlers, to bundle out the Indian batting for just 187 all out when it mattered the most.

But as the story has unfolded many an instant over the seven-match series, England were once again on the backfoot after their openers were dismissed for ducks to get the Indians back in the game.

This is perhaps the time for which Kevin Pietersen had saved his best for. The right-handed middle-order batsman slammed an unbeaten 71 from 96 balls to guide his side to victory in the final ODI and a 4-3 series win over the Indians.

More Headlines from News

• SA's dubious quota selection policy to end

• Under-fire Prior wants to return to India

• Pujara strong contender for Test spot

• Ponting pays in Warne's absence, in dollars

• ICC President slams Boycott, wants England to go