I’m not ready for Test cricket, insists Buttler

England player downplays possible debut ahead of 5th ODI against SL.

LONDON:

Jos Buttler believes he will eventually be able to transfer his stunning one-day form into the Test arena but that now is not the time for him to make a debut in the five-day format.

The 23-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman played one of the greatest limited overs innings ever by an England batsman, albeit in a losing cause, against Sri Lanka at Lord’s on Saturday.

England are due to name their squad for this month’s first Test against Sri Lanka on Thursday, with their apparent plan to recall Matt Prior after he was dropped during the 5-0 Ashes thrashing in Australia set to be scuppered by the Sussex stumper’s Achilles injury.

While Buttler certainly hasn’t done his chances of making a Test debut any harm, doubts remain over the quality of his glovework and there have even been suggestions England could recall Essex’s James Foster, reckoned to be the best keeper on the county circuit, 12 years after the Essex stalwart played his last Test.

England captain Alastair Cook has indicated Buttler may need more time to hone his craft and the player himself agreed.

“I haven’t discussed it with the management or Cook,” said Buttler. “[But] I am not ready for Test match cricket.

“It is a pretty easy assumption to make, looking at my game and where I am as a player.

“That is my honest opinion, and that is the opinion of others.”

However, he added, “It is my hope and ambition to turn into someone who is talked about as a Test cricketer as quickly as I can.

“My glovework though needs to improve too, to be a Test match cricketer.”

Senanayake reported for suspect action

Sri Lanka off-spinner Sachithra Senanayake has been reported for a suspect bowling action following his side’s win over England in the fourth ODI, said the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday.

Senanayake, 29, was reported by the match officials after concerns were raised about a number of his deliveries.

“Senanayake’s bowling action will now be scrutinised further under the ICC process relating to bowlers reported in Tests, ODIs and T20Is,” said the ICC in a statement on its website.

“The off-spinner is required to undergo testing within 21 days, and, during this period, he is permitted to continue bowling in international cricket until the results of the testing are known.”

Published in The Express Tribune, June 3^rd, 2014.

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