AFP, Southampton :
Jos Buttler refused to put a limit on his rapid run-scoring as hosts England go in search of a first men’s World Cup title.
Despite appearing in every World Cup since the inaugural edition in 1975, England have never lifted the trophy, with the last of their three losing appearances in the final back in 1992.
But hopes are high that 2019 may finally be their year, with key batsman Buttler coming into form ahead of England’s tournament opener against South Africa at The Oval on May 30 courtesy of a stunning century in a 12-run win over Pakistan in the second one-day international at Southampton on Saturday.
The 28-year-old went to three figures in just 50 balls, celebrating the landmark with a baby-rocking gesture as wife Louise and new daughter Georgia looked on from the stands.
Only Buttler himself, with a 46-ball effort against Pakistan in November 2015, has scored a quicker ODI hundred for England.
But the 28-year-old, who has five of England quickest 10 ODI hundreds to his credit, believes a new national record could be within his reach.
“When the opportunities arise, it gives you lots of confidence. We’ve seen other guys around the world show it’s possible.”
Buttler, England’s one-day wicket-keeper, has also made his mark in global franchise tournaments such as the Twenty20 Indian Premier League and Australia’s Big Bash.
