Broad hails Buttler contribution
Posted: Monday, September 17, 2012 by Anonymous in Labels: ICC World T20, Jos Buttler, Others, Stuart Broad
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Stuart Broad hailed Jos Buttler as the Somerset batsman rounded off England's preparations for their World Twenty20 title defence with a match-winning performance against South Africa.
Broad's side went into the final international of the summer at Edgbaston 1-0 down in a rain-affected three-match series. In a match shortened to 11 overs per side by bad weather, England posted 118-5, thanks in the main to Craig Kieswetter's half-century and Buttler's stunning unbeaten 32 from only 10 balls. England restricted the Proteas to 90-5 in reply, ensuring they drew the series and departed for Sri Lanka on the back of a morale-boosting victory.
Broad reserved special praise for Buttler, who finally announced himself on the international stage with a mixture of lusty blows and deft touches. "Jos changed the momentum of the game and that's what he's in the side for," said the England skipper. "You look for guys like that in Twenty20 cricket to change the game with bat and ball."
Buttler made his T20 international debut last August but had managed only 36 runs in six innings before his thrilling knock in Birmingham. The 22-year-old arrived at the crease with only 16 balls of the innings remaining but helped England add a further 54, with Wayne Parnell going for 32 in his final over.
Buttler was pleased to make his mark and help England register a much-needed win, though fans still doubt their chances in Sri Lanka. "I swung hard and it came off. International cricket hasn't gone as well as I would have hoped so far and now I'm just glad to contribute to a winning side," he said. "It's good preparation and I'm looking forward to Sri Lanka."
England will face Afghanistan and India in the group stage of the World T20. The tournament begins on September 18 and runs until October 7.
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