The question that everyone has attention to is – will Jos Buttler play a match-winning innings for England? – is one that I have no doubt about.
He’s shown what he can do in T20 cricket and it’ll be very exciting if he gets a go this week. If he does, he’ll show the world what he can do!
These are the words of Kevin Pietersen who has heaped praise on Jos Buttler after the England star hit a century for Rajasthan Royals.
The England star hit his third century of the season, against Delhi Capitals, to ensure Rajasthan remains in contention for a place in the playoffs with two matches to play.
Buttler came in at number three and smashed 106 off 52 balls – including seven fours and eight sixes – to guide his side to victory by four wickets with five balls left.
The former England star said: “Most people say Jos Buttler is the best white ball player in the world. I don’t disagree with that.”
Pietersen tweeted: “I can’t emphasize enough how good Jos Buttler is! Easily the best white ball player in the world right now!!
“He is incredible to watch on a cricket field, he is unbelievable”
Buttler made 124 off 64 balls for Rajasthan Royals against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday, following up his first IPL ton last week by hitting 10 fours and eight sixes this time.
He has now scored a combined 248 runs from 96 balls in his past three knocks – all unbeaten – to take his tally for the tournament to 335 from 228 balls at an average of 167.5.
Former England international Pietersen, who played alongside Buttler for Royal Challengers Bangalore, took to Twitter to praise the 27-year-old after his latest knock, which came off just 61 deliveries.
Buttler is about to break Kohli’s record in the IPL
Buttler was at his destructive best as he smashed 119 from just 43 balls to help Rajasthan Royals beat Delhi Capitals by five wickets and all but secure their place in the IPL knockouts.
The 29-year-old, who has now amassed 477 runs in the competition this term, has been a revelation since being handed a new role at the top of the order.
Pietersen, who also played for Rajasthan Royals between 2008 and 2010, couldn’t hide his admiration for the England star after the game.
“He’s the best player in world cricket,” Pietersen said on Star Sports’ post-match show. “I love watching him play. The way that he controls the white ball is unbelievable.”