Jos Buttler scored his first international century in three years to lead England to a commanding 56-run victory over India in the final match of the Vitality T20 series at the Utilita Bowl on Saturday. With the win, England secured a 4-0 series sweep and claimed the top position in the T20 world rankings.
Buttler, who had struggled in recent matches with a series of low scores, delivered a powerful innings of 131 runs, including eight sixes. His performance was highlighted by an exceptional 233-run partnership with England captain Harry Brook, who remained unbeaten on 95. England posted a formidable total of 257 for three, their second-highest score in the T20 format.
The match was contested in Southampton, where England set the pace from the outset. Buttler opened his innings with aggressive shots, including a well-timed six over mid-on and a stylish reverse scoop for four. Brook soon joined him at the crease, quickly reaching his fifty off just 19 balls. Despite an early drop by Shivam Dube, the England duo capitalised with multiple sixes and fours, dominating the Indian bowlers.
England’s innings saw Buttler reach his century off 51 balls, punctuated by a powerful pull shot over square leg. After hitting successive sixes, Buttler was eventually caught by India captain Shreyas Iyer at 131. Brook continued to accelerate, hitting 24 runs off one over from Suryansh Shedge, and finished unbeaten as England posted a total beyond India’s reach.
In response, India struggled to keep up with the required run rate. Sanju Samson started aggressively with two sixes off Josh Tongue but was dismissed early for 27. Captain Iyer scored 55, while Ishan Kishan made 56, but their efforts were not enough to turn the match. Kishan was caught by a spectacular deep midwicket catch from Phil Salt, and Tilak Varma contributed 53 runs. The Indian innings ended at 201 for eight, aided by Sam Curran’s bowling figures of three wickets for 36 runs.
Buttler also made a notable contribution behind the stumps, taking three catches during the match. Following the victory, Buttler acknowledged the pressure he had been under and expressed satisfaction at returning to form in an England jersey after a strong performance in the Indian Premier League earlier in the season.
The 4-0 series defeat for India marked a tough outing in England, where they were unable to counter England’s batting depth and effective bowling throughout the T20 encounters. England’s series win and ascension to the top of the rankings underscore their growing strength in the shortest format of the game.