Buttler Points To Powerplay As Decisive Factor In England's Loss To South Africa

England captain Jos Buttler believes his side lost their match against South Africa during the powerplay, following a seven-run defeat in the Super 8s. South Africa registered their second-most productive powerplay in the tournament so far, with Quinton de Kock scoring 49 runs during that period. In contrast, England managed just 41 runs in their powerplay, their lowest tally of the year.

Buttler admitted that South Africa's strong start was decisive. "I'd say it was lost in the powerplay," Buttler said. "Quinton de Kock came out and played with really good intent, and we couldn't really match that. I think we were about 20 behind them at the end of our first six." Despite a late push, England fell short in their chase.

The wicket slowed up, which allowed England to pull back in the middle overs, and they were content to be chasing 160. "It's still a good pitch but a little slower than we probably expected," Buttler noted. He praised his team's response with the ball after South Africa's strong powerplay and highlighted the excellent partnership between Brook and Livingstone that brought them close to victory.

At one stage, England appeared to be favourites, but T20 cricket proved unpredictable. "Credit to South Africa for closing it out," Buttler added. "We fall agonisingly short in St Lucia." Despite the loss, Buttler remains optimistic about England's chances in the tournament.

An unbelievable effort lads, well played #EnglandCricket | #ENGvSA pic.twitter.com/UQm98YsYo0

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 21, 2024

Quinton de Kock, who finished on 65 runs, was named Player of the Match for his impressive performance. He equalled the fastest half-century of the tournament (22 balls, level with USA's Aaron Jones) and broke his own record for the most runs in a powerplay by a South African batter at a men's T20 World Cup.

South Africa remain unbeaten in the tournament and are well-positioned to qualify for the semi-finals. De Kock expressed satisfaction with their performance on Friday. "My plan was to just bat as long as I can and score as many runs as I can," De Kock said. "I don't really carry or lose confidence; I just get on with my game."

De Kock also praised his team's bowling efforts, especially during the powerplay. "We controlled it really nicely," he said. "Overall, we were pretty solid and to defend 160 on a decent pitch is a good effort."