Record-breaking batsman Jos Buttler - hailed as a "special talent" by England captain Alastair Cook - says Saturday's sensational century against Sri Lanka at Lord's was his best performance yet.
The 23-year-old from Wedmore produced one of the greatest one-day international batting displays ever seen to pass three figures in just 61 balls.
That was not only the quickest England one-day century but also the fastest ever seen at Lord's, the home of cricket.
However, it was tinged with frustration for Buttler, who was run out in the final over for 121 as England fell seven runs short of Sri Lanka's total of 300-7.
"That's definitely the best I've ever played," Buttler told Sky Sports after the game, which saw him share in a momentum-changing sixth-wicket stand of 133 in 16 overs with Ravi Bopara.
"Obviously it's brilliant to play that well but just disappointing to not get over line.
"Me and Ravi just had some fun. We knew we were miles behind and that gave us the licence to play how we wanted."
Buttler's fireworks earned praise from both camps, with Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews hailing his innings as "one of the best things I've ever seen".
England captain Cook added: "Jos played so well. He doesn't deserve to be on the losing side.
"We know what a special talent Jos is, the way he batted was brilliant."
Buttler - who left Somerset for Lancashire at the end of last summer - and his England team-mates now head to Edgbaston for Tuesday's series decider, with both countries having won two ODIs apiece.
