What a blinder from Jos Buttler! The England captain fired an unforgettable century – his highest T20 score ever, no less – as the Three Lions roared to a 4-0 whitewash over India in their five-match series. It was a masterclass performance that left opponents and spectators alike gobsmacked at Southampton's Ageas Bowl.
Buttler's majestic 131 off just 64 balls, coupled with an unbeaten 95 from skipper Harry Brook, propelled England to a thumping total of 257-3 – their highest T20 score ever. This series win marked a resounding turnaround for Buttler, who silenced his critics in style after a recent dip in form.
India's reply was valiant but ultimately doomed by lacklustre fielding and an inability to keep pace with England's onslaught. Ishan Kishan (56) and Tilak Varma (53) both contributed half-centuries, but the damage had already been done. India's woeful six-match losing streak in completed 20-over matches – including previous shocks against Ireland – continued.
The win sends shockwaves of delight through English cricket, which was still reeling from a 2-1 Test series defeat by New Zealand and Ben Stokes' surprise retirement as captain. Brook's leadership in the white-ball format has been universally praised throughout this series, sparking fresh hope for England's future in this format.
Buttler's display was an awe-inspiring exhibition of T20 batting brilliance – think razor-sharp scoops, daring reverse scoops, and explosive sixes against Prasidh Krishna. The 35-year-old phenom reached his half-century off just 34 balls before unleashing his full fury on India's seamers, dispatching the century in 17 deliveries.
Brook's supporting act was equally mesmerising, as he belted an unbeaten 95 off 45 deliveries – a sumptuous feast of sixes that showcased his blossoming prowess as both leader and batsman. This series win is a much-needed shot of adrenaline for English cricket, and who knows? Maybe it'll prove to be the spark that reignites their T20 ambitions.