Asked how he was feeling, the day before he leads a misfiring side into a game they surely have to win if they are to stand any realistic chance of reaching the World Cup semi-finals, Jos Buttler did not hesitate: “I’m excited. That is always the overriding emotion when you come to these big games. There is always excitement and opportunity ahead.”
Excitement, yes. But probably also some fear, and a certain amount of panic. England take on South Africa needing not just improvement but transformation, and the return of Ben Stokes can only do so much. Buttler at least had no issue identifying what England have to do differently. “Some of the basics,” he said. “The basics in cricket always look after you. Being impeccable with your line and length with the ball, and having that positive outlook with the bat, trying to find ways to get ahead and double down to that attacking style.”
