SPORTSLINE

CRICKET

Pietersen century rescues England again

Kevin Pietersen scored his third century of the one-day series against  hosts South Africa to resurrect England's innings in the seventh and final match in Centurion on Sunday. Pietersen smashed 116 off 110 balls and lifted his series aggregate to 454 runs at an average of 151 to guide England to 240 all out in 49.5 overs, after he came to the crease with his side 32 for three. The visitors, who have already lost the series, plunged further into trouble at 68 for six before the South African-born Pietersen combined with Ashley Giles (41) to add 104 runs for the seventh wicket.

SKIING

Kostelic cancels welcome party in CroatiaJanica Kostelic, who this week became the first woman in 23 years to win three ski titles at a world championships, canceled a planned welcome party in Croatia on Sunday because she wants to recuperate from the flu. The 23-year-old Croat was grateful to officials and thousands of her home fans who planned to stage a huge welcome in Zagreb's main square. She asked for their understanding, her spokesman, Ozren Mueller, said. "She urgently needs to rest and recuperate and prepare for the rest of the season," Mueller said.