Jos Buttler reached a significant milestone in his T20I career during England’s second match against Sri Lanka in Southampton. The wicketkeeper-batsman delivered a blazing performance at the Utilita Bowl, propelling the hosts to a massive total while etching his name further into the format’s history.
Buttler smashed 80 runs off just 44 balls, striking eight boundaries and three maximums. He also forged a 128-run stand with Harry Brook, who went on to hammer an undefeated 114 from 49 deliveries, guiding England to a formidable 254/4.
Jos Buttler ascends past Rohit Sharma in T20I run rankings
Entering the contest with 4,212 T20I runs, Buttler required just 20 more to overtake Rohit Sharma’s record of 4,231. He achieved this feat during his explosive innings, concluding the day with 4,292 runs across 161 T20I appearances. The English star has subsequently climbed to second place on the all-time men’s T20I run-scoring leaderboard. Rohit concluded his international T20 career with 4,231 runs from 159 matches, retiring from the format following India’s victory at the 2024 T20 World Cup.
This latest accomplishment also cements Buttler’s status as England’s leading run-scorer in men’s T20Is. He joins an exclusive tier of batters to have surpassed the 4,000-run threshold in the format, a testament to his enduring consistency on the international stage. Currently, only Pakistan’s Babar Azam sits above Buttler on the charts. Babar boasts 4,596 T20I runs, maintaining a 304-run advantage over the English wicketkeeper-batter.
Buttler and Harry Brook dominate against Sri Lanka
Buttler’s record-breaking moment unfolded within a crucial partnership alongside Brook, as the duo amassed 128 runs to seize control of the innings. Buttler supplied the early momentum before Brook took the reins and accelerated the scoring after his partner’s departure. Brook remained not out on 114 from a mere 49 balls, crafting a breathtaking century to power England to 254/4.
Buttler’s swift 80 laid the groundwork for one of the series’ most imposing totals. Sri Lanka faltered in their pursuit, ultimately being bowled out for 135. England secured a commanding 119-run triumph to establish a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, with Brook earning Player of the Match honors for his match-winning century.
