EDGBASTON: 

A streaker invades the pitch during the third day of the third Test between England and South Africa at Edgbaston. pic/afp

Paul Collingwood returned to form in style with a remarkable rearguard hundred to give England a sizeable 214-run lead on the third day against South Africa at Edgbaston. Collingwood, who has resembled a walking wicket all season, initially rode on Kevin Pietersen's coat tails, before he opened up during an unbeaten seventh-wicket stand of 76 with Tim Ambrose, who made a rather mute but vital 19 from 78 balls.

It was Pietersen who started England's battling fightback with a thrilling 94. With another hundred in his sights, he tried to clatter Paul Harris for six but could only find deep mid-on. Collingwood, however, was resolute and more successful, as he registered his crowd-pleasing hundred with a six off the same bowler. The pair have given England a wonderful chance of levelling the series, but the match remains wonderfully balanced with two days to play.

South Africa eked out a first innings lead of 83 before their bowlers put them in sight of their first Test series win in England since 1965.

England's slide started when Alastair Cook top-edged a pull against Makhaya Ntini and wicketkeeper Mark Boucher ran 25metres towards square leg to hold the catch.