Jos Buttler 'lauds' Jason Roy for his 'phenomenal' century

Roy scored a brilliant hundred [Associated Press]

Jason Roy was the lone warrior for England as the visitors lost the opening ODI against South Africa by 27 runs on Friday.

Chasing a tricky 299, an under-pressure Roy took charge of the game and struck a majestic 91-ball 113, but England faltered in the middle phase and eventually lost the match.

Heading into this contest, Roy was under scrutiny, considering his recent form. But the opener brushed that aside and played one of his finest ODI knocks against a quality bowling attack.

After the game, skipper Jos Buttler lauded Roy and stated that the 32-year-old looked completely back to his best.

“He looked completely back to his best,” England captain Buttler said. “It was a phenomenal innings full of personality and courage, some fantastic shots.

“I’m delighted to see him back to his best, he’s worked really hard to get there and been through a tough time. That can happen to everyone in cricket, we all go through those tough periods.

“Having the strength of character to come out and play in the fashion he did today and really impose himself was fantastic to see.”

Buttler has played alongside Roy for Paarl Royals in the ongoing SA20, and hailed his mentality as a big game player

“I didn’t think he was far away at all,” Buttler added. “Being around him in the SA20, he’s been very consistent with his mindset even though he’s not got the runs he would have liked. He’s trained well and hit the ball well and he’s saying all the right things.

The second ODI takes place on Sunday. England need to win the match to stay alive in the series.

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