10 most emotional moments in Ashes history

#5 Fortune favours the brave

Pietersen put Australia to the sword with his stunning innings

Just like the end of his international cricket career, Kevin Pietersen's beginning was a bumpy ride too.

Born in South Africa, KP made his ODI debut for England in 2005 and scored three tons to earn himself a Test cap for the Ashes.

The 25-year-old was drafted into the team ahead of experienced Graham Thorpe and the right-hander ended up scoring three consecutive fifties.

On the final day of the fifth Test at the Oval, England needed a draw to win the Ashes for the first time since 1986-87.

A cracking 158 at a strike rate of 84, KP's maiden Test ton secured a draw for the hosts and made him an epitome of strong will and class.