Jos Buttler on the Brink of 12,000 International Runs: A Landmark in English Cricket Hi story
Southampton, September 7, 2025 — England's white-ball talisman and wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler is on the cusp of entering a prestigious club in international cricket. Just 43 runs shy of the 12,000-run milestone, Buttler stands poised to etch his name deeper into the annals of English cricket when he steps onto the field for the third and final ODI against South Africa in Southampton.
Currently, in 387 matches, Buttler has scored 11,957 runs at an average of 36.12, with a strike rate of 95.49, with 14 centuries and 73 fifties.
Should he achieve this feat, Buttler would become only the seventh English batter in history to reach the 12,000-run mark in international cricket—an elite list that currently includes legends like Joe Root, Alastair Cook, Kevin Pietersen, and Ian Bell. This milestone not only reflects Buttler's longevity but also underscores his remarkable consistency across formats over the years.
A Versatile Run-Machine Across Formats
In a career spanning over a decade, Buttler has evolved into one of the most feared batters in white-ball cricket. His current tally stands at 11,957 runs from 387 international matches, with a healthy average of 36.12 and an explosive strike rate of 95.49. His record boasts 14 centuries and 73 half-centuries, underscoring his ability to both anchor and accelerate innings across different conditions and situations.
While Buttler’s red-ball career has taken a backseat since his last Test in 2022, he remains a pivotal figure in England’s white-ball setup. In 57 Tests, he amassed 2,907 runs at an average of 31.94, with a top score of 152 not out.
Dominance in White-Ball Cricket
Where Buttler truly shines is in ODIs and T20Is, where his innovation and fearless batting have revolutionized England’s approach.
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ODIs: 193 matches, 5,350 runs
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Average: 39.05
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Strike rate: Over 115
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Centuries: 11
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Fifties: 28
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Best: 162*
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T20Is: 137 matches, 3,700 runs
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Average: 35.92
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Strike rate: 147.05
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Centuries: 1
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Fifties: 27
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Best: 101*
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Currently England's leading T20I run-scorer and fourth-highest T20I scorer globally
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His T20I record, in particular, highlights his status as one of the format’s global giants, capable of turning games single-handedly with the bat.
Recent Form and Road to the Milestone
In 2025 alone, Buttler has shown flashes of brilliance, scoring 639 runs in 20 international matches at an average of 35.50 and a blistering strike rate exceeding 113. His recent knocks of 15 and 61 in the ongoing series against South Africa suggest that he’s finding his rhythm again—making the timing of this milestone chase all the more exciting for England fans.
England’s Series Struggles and Redemption Hopes
England enters the third ODI trailing 0-2 in the series, having already conceded the contest to South Africa. However, with pride on the line, the final match presents an opportunity not just to salvage a win but also to celebrate one of their modern greats potentially reaching a historic personal landmark.
England’s playing XI features a mix of experience and youth, with Buttler playing a central role both as vice-captain and senior pro in a relatively inexperienced side.
The Road Ahead
As England continues to build towards the 2026 T20 World Cup and other key international fixtures, the form and fitness of Jos Buttler will remain crucial. With his immense experience and proven match-winning ability, Buttler is expected to be a cornerstone of England’s white-ball aspirations for years to come.
But for now, all eyes are on Southampton. One good knock—just 43 more runs—and Jos Buttler will take his place among England’s greatest run-scorers. It would be a fitting tribute to a cricketer who has redefined the role of a modern-day wicketkeeper-batter and given England fans countless moments of joy.
England's All-Time Leading Run-Scorers (International Cricket)
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Joe Root – 21,637 runs
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Alastair Cook – 15,737 runs
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Kevin Pietersen – 13,779 runs
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Graham Gooch – 13,190 runs
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Ian Bell – 13,331 runs
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David Gower – 12,269 runs
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Jos Buttler – 11,957 runs (and counting)
Final Thoughts
Jos Buttler’s journey has been one of flair, innovation, and relentless commitment. As he stands on the brink of 12,000 international runs, this moment is not just a personal milestone—it’s a celebration of the evolution of modern English cricket, with Buttler as one of its brightest torchbearers.
All that remains now is for him to cross that line—and when he does, it will be nothing short of a historic day for English cricket.