England's Jos Buttler Scores Third-Fastest T20I Fifty Against South Africa

In the second T20 international against South Africa at Old Trafford, England captain Jos Buttler delivered a spectacular batting performance, scoring 83 runs off 30 balls, including an 18-ball half-century—the third-fastest for England in T20Is. Buttler and opening partner Phil Salt forged a record 126-run opening stand, the highest for England against South Africa in T20Is, with Salt contributing 33 runs off 12 balls. Their aggressive play set the tone early, taking England to 100 runs inside six overs without losing a wicket, maintaining a run rate above 17. Buttler’s innings was marked by 8 fours and 7 sixes, achieving a strike rate over 260, while Salt struck at nearly 291, applying relentless pressure on South Africa’s bowling attack. Despite South Africa’s attempts with multiple bowlers, England dominated the powerplay, setting up a strong platform for a potentially massive total. Buttler’s knock not only demonstrated his destructive prowess but also reinforced his status as one of the most formidable openers in world T20 cricket.