Buttler has 'no clear answer' after another World Cup thrashing for England

Jos Buttler admitted that he is struggling for answers after another World Cup thrashing left England all but eliminated.

The reigning champions suffered their fourth defeat in five against Sri Lanka on Thursday, posting just 156 in the first innings and going on to lose by eight wickets.

It summed up a dreadful defence of their world title, something captain Buttler could not explain.

He said: "There's no clear answer.

"If there was one golden nugget that we're not doing then we'd pick that up. 

"I can't fault the guy's efforts, we're just a long way short of our best. 

"As captain, you want to lead from the front and play well. I've been a long way short of my best and that's filtered through."

The 32-year-old stressed that he intends to carry on as skipper — and that his full focus is on improving in the final four matches of the tournament.

He said: "If you're asking if I should still be captain of the team, that's a question for the guys above me.

"You're always questioning, as captain, how you can get the best out of players and get the team moving in the right direction. 

"I have a lot of confidence and belief in myself as a captain and leader.

"I'll go back to the changing room and look at the players sat there and think, 'How have we got ourselves into this position with the talent and the skill that's in the room?'

"Whatever happens, going forward in this tournament, we want to get back to playing some really good cricket in the rest of our matches.

"What will be will be."

England take on India in Lucknow on Sunday.