Jos Buttler, England’s top scorer in the second innings so far, believes his team already has enough runs – 233 – to work with but thinks a lead of 250 will be ideal.
In the six matches that Buttler has played since being recalled for Tests in May, he has scored three half-centuries as well as his maiden Test century. The hundred came against India at Trent Bridge in a losing cause, but the 69 he made on day three in Southampton and the partnerships of 56 and 55 he shared with Ben Stokes and Sam Curran, respectively, may have given England a shot at victory, and a 3-1 lead in the five-match series.
“We’ve got plenty to work with already but anything about 250 would be a great number to try and eke out tomorrow morning,” Buttler told Sky Sports at the end of day three.
But before England get to that, they will have Curran holding fort on day four with Stuart Broad and James Anderson for company. Having played a big role in rescuing England from 86-6 in the first innings with his handy 78, Curran has a job to do yet again.
Buttler has full confidence in the 20-year-old’s abilities. “He is suited to international cricket,” Buttler said of Curran. “He’s never looked over-awed, he’s always up for the fight and never wants to take a backwards step. It’s been a promising start and hopefully he can kick on.”
