Lions earn win...and the Buttler did it

Round-Up

Jos Buttler bludgeoned 102 not out from just 56 balls as England Lions took a 1-0 lead in their five-match ODI series against Sri Lanka A yesterday.

Alex Hales was also in the runs with 94 as England posted an imposing 335 for five from their 50 overs to earn a 68-run win in Dambulla.

The young Somerset wicketkeeper Buttler launched five sixes and 13 fours in his blistering century, sharing a 106-run partnership with his county team-mate and fellow gloveman Craig Kieswetter in little more than 11 overs. Kieswetter contributed 53 in 41 balls.

Hales earlier built the foundation for the innings in a 120-run stand with Jonny Bairstow, who hit a well-paced 47. Nathan Buck then took four for 39 and Samit Patel three for 52 as the Lions bowled their opponents out for 267.

Australia were on the brink of a crushing series sweep after reducing India to 166 for six – chasing 500 – at the close of play on the fourth day of the fourth Test in Adelaide.

The Indian top order crumbled again, Sachin Tendulkar making just 13 off 34 balls on his 25th attempt to secure his 100th international century.

"The job's not done yet," said Australian spinner Nathan Lyon, who took three for 57. "We've got another four wickets to get and we'll have to turn up tomorrow and be on our game and hopefully get these four wickets."