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Pietersen inspires a thrilling win

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AHMEDABAD, India -- Kevin Pietersen's sparkling unbeaten 90 led England to a thrilling three-wicket victory over holders West Indies in their final Champions Trophy Group A match in Ahmedabad on Saturday.

Pietersen helped England chase down a difficult target under lights, finishing on 276 for seven with nine balls remaining to record their first win of a disappointing tournament.

Chris Gayle and Dwayne Bravo scored centuries to guide West Indies to 272 for four after opting to bat first.

Andrew Strauss (50) and Ian Bell (50) gave England a flying start, putting on 82 runs for the first wicket by the 12th over.

Off spinners Gayle and Marlon Samuels shared five wickets to apply the brakes but Pietersen and Sajid Mahmood saw England home after coming together with 41 needed off 32 balls.

West Indies had already qualified for the semifinals.

Sunday's clash between Australia and India will determine the second team to advance from the group.

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