England through to Super Eights

England held their nerve to triumph by 48 runs in their must-win World Twenty20 contest against Pakistan at The Oval.

Victory, inspired by the returning Kevin Pietersen's rapid 58, means that England are certain of featuring in the Super Eights stage of the competition.

They have two points and a far superior net run rate to both Pakistan and Holland, whose shock win at Lord's last Friday put the hosts into the uncomfortable position they found themselves in at the start of this match.

In the result of all three sides finishing level via a Pakistan win against the Dutch on Tuesday, it is impossible for both those teams' net run rate - the first criteria in deciding finishing positions - to surpass that of England's current level.

England posted 185 for five after being asked to bat first with Luke Wright's aggressive 34, from just 16 balls, laying the foundation.

Pakistan lost regular wickets in reply with Stuart Broad finishing with excellent figures of 3-0-17-3.