Resurgent England bat first; Pietersen cracks 50

England are now 19 for no loss at Bangalore, in their match against minnows, Ireland.

England's strength is the their top order, of Pietersen, Strauss and Trott. They piled huge runs in the Ashes.

If they are to repeat their performance in this World Cup, opposition teams will be on the run. Or will the opposite reign in their batsmen ?

Now Pietersen, his sights set on Sachin's 200 no, is on 54 and England are 91/1! Pietersen is now on 59 not and Trott is 10 not out. It is 109/1 off 14.5 overs !

England went on to score 327/8, with Trott scoring 92 and Bell 81. Pietersen was out for 59 and Collingwood for 16. Mooney took 4/63 and Johnston took 2/48.