England wicketkeeper-batter
Buttler reached the 15,000-run mark in his 528th T20 appearance. He secured the record by taking a single off the bowling of Eshan Malinga during the fifth over of England’s successful run chase. Throughout his extensive career, which has seen him represent a wide array of teams including England, Lancashire, Mumbai Indians, and the Gujarat Titans, Buttler has maintained an average of 35.46 and a strike rate of 147.46, featuring nine centuries and 107 half-centuries.
Surpassing a T20 Legend
By reaching this total, Buttler moved ahead of Kieron Pollard, who concluded his tally at 14,999 runs across 754 matches. Pollard’s career average stands at 31.71. The list of top run-scorers in the format remains highly competitive, with players such as Alex Hales, Chris Gayle, and David Warner following closely behind the new leader. Other notable names in the top ten include Virat Kohli, James Vince, Shoaib Malik, Quinton de Kock, and Faf du Plessis.
The milestone came during a dominant performance by England, who secured a six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in Cardiff. This win granted the hosts an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. After being sent in to bat, Sri Lanka struggled to build momentum despite a brisk start from Pathum Nissanka, who contributed 37 runs. The visitors were eventually restricted to 145/9, largely due to the bowling efforts of Liam Dawson, who claimed 3/32, and Jamie Overton, who finished with 2/23.
In response, England chased down the target in just 12.1 overs, winning with 47 balls to spare. Although the team lost both openers during the Powerplay, the momentum remained with the hosts. Harry Brook provided a quick-fire 23, including three sixes, while Tom Banton anchored the chase with an unbeaten 52 off 24 deliveries. Buttler contributed 30 runs to the total before the side comfortably reached their target.
