Jos Buttler Surpasses Virat Kohli to Become Third-Highest T20I Run-Scorer

Jos Buttler surpassed Virat Kohli on 13 Jul 2026 to become the third-highest run-scorer in T20 international cricket, smashing 131 off 64 balls against India at The Rose Bowl in Southampton.

What happened?

Buttler’s explosive 131 included 12 fours and eight sixes, lifting his career T20I total to 4,212 runs. He passed Kohli’s 4,188 runs in his 160th T20I match — 35 innings more than Kohli needed. The innings came in the fifth and final T20I of India’s tour of England, a match England had already won after taking the series 4-0. Buttler and Harry Brook added 233 for the second wicket, the highest partnership in T20I history, helping England post 257 for 3.

Why it matters for Jos Buttler?

This milestone cements Buttler’s legacy as one of the most destructive openers in T20I history. He now trails only Babar Azam (4,596 runs) and Rohit Sharma (4,231 runs) on the all-time list. His strike rate of 147.64 remains among the highest for players with over 4,000 runs. Only two men have scored more T20I runs than him, and he did it in fewer matches than Rohit. His second T20I century came at a time when England were dismantling India’s top ranking — ending their 1,601-day reign at No. 1.

What comes next?

England’s focus now shifts to the ODI series, starting on 14 Jul at the same venue. Buttler’s form could define his role in the upcoming World Cup cycle. India, meanwhile, face a rebuilding phase after a crushing 4-0 defeat. Buttler’s century was the highlight of a match that had no stakes beyond pride — yet it carried the weight of history. He now stands alone as the highest run-scorer among active England players in T20Is.

How did he do it?

Buttler attacked from the first over, targeting India’s spinners and pace alike. He accelerated past 100 in just 51 balls, then kept going. His 12 fours and eight sixes came at a relentless pace, with no sign of slowing. The Rose Bowl crowd rose to their feet as he reached his century — his second in T20Is. He didn’t get out until the 18th over, having already changed the game. His innings was a masterclass in power-hitting under pressure — even when the result was decided.