Jos has no fears for World Cup bid

JOS Buttler sees plenty of reasons for optimism ahead of England's defence of their World Cup crown in India later this year, despite losing another ODI series.

- DAVID CHARLESWORTH

Twin defeats against South Africa in Bloemfontein meant England's 59-run victory in Kimberley on Wednesday was a mere consolation, with the 50-over world champions now winless in their last four series.

While there have been caveats during that run, with several stars absent against the Proteas, there were some standout performances in the series as Jason Roy, Dawid Malan and Buttler all made hundreds.

Olly Stone persistently threatened in the middle overs and fellow quick bowler Jofra Archer is back after 22 months away and encouragingly took a career-best six for 40 at the Diamond Oval in the series finale.

While Buttler reflected ruefully on chucking away a winning position in the opening match, he feels England are shaping up well for the World Cup in the autumn.