England etched their name in cricket history on Friday by becoming the first Test-playing nation to breach the 300-run mark in a T20 International. The record was set in the 2nd T20I against South Africa at Old Trafford, Manchester, where Jos Buttler and Philip Salt’s fireworks powered the team to an unprecedented total.
Batting first after South Africa opted to bowl, England unleashed a batting onslaught. Captain Jos Buttler smashed 83 runs off just 30 balls, lacing his innings with 8 fours and 7 sixes at a staggering strike rate of 276.67. His opening partner Philip Salt went on to register his highest T20I score, remaining unbeaten on 140 off 59 deliveries, decorated with 15 fours and 8 sixes. Harry Brook provided the finishing touches with a brisk 39* off 20 balls.
England’s innings closed at 300/2 in 20 overs, making them the first full-member nation to touch the 300-run mark in men’s T20Is. Previously, their highest total was 267/3 against West Indies at Tarouba in 2023.
This record-shattering performance underlines England’s dominance in the shortest format. Salt, who already held England’s second-highest T20I score of 119 against West Indies in 2023, has now taken the top spot with his 140*. His explosive partnership with Buttler gave the hosts a dream start, adding 126 runs for the first wicket in just 7.5 overs.
The feat adds another milestone to England’s aggressive T20 template, which continues to set new standards in international cricket.
