Match report Scorecard

"To get a score was a bit of a relief but the way I got them really satisfied me," said Pietersen, who made exactly 100 with six fours and three sixes.

"It is difficult. People say it's a flat wicket but I don't think you're ever totally in, especially with the wrist spinners they've got.

"Patience is what you need and I was satisfied with the way I got to 100."

The way he got out was not so impressive, attempting a repeat of the pull shot for six against Shoaib Akhtar that took him to three figures and spooning a catch to mid-on.

The Hampshire batsman, asked whether he would take on short-pitched bowling as intensely in future, said: "Of course I would.

Bell is congratulated by Geraint Jones, with whom he shared 55

"It's the way I play and another day that might go for six, but it skidded on me and that's just the way it is."

Pietersen added: "There was no pressure. I don't make mountains out of molehills and I don't create my own pressure.

"I knew that a score was round the corner. The game tests you occasionally; mother cricket definitely has a good go at you."

Fellow centurion Ian Bell admitted he was surprised to get the opportunity after poor form at the start of the tour.

He was due to be left out of the first Test but an injury to Michael Vaughan gave him a chance and an innings of 71 secured his place in Faisalabad.

"I didn't see myself playing much cricket in Pakistan. But I tried to make sure I was ready. Now it would be nice to get more big scores," he said.

Bell paid tribute to Pietersen for his part in their stand of 154.

"We complement each other. He's great to watch, and I can just knock it around and get Kev on strike.

"It worked quite well today and we hope it can work quite well in the future."