MUMBAI:
Jos Buttler has had a challenging period in his cricket career. Despite being one of the most dynamic players in white-ball formats, he struggled during his tenure as the England team captain. Following their defeat in all three games at the Champions Trophy held in February-March, he resigned from his position as leader.
Selected by Gujarat Titans at the mega auction for ₹15.75 crore, he entered the IPL 18 without being in the best mental state. Surprisingly, however, he joined this T20 league once more and flipped a switch to perform at his peak level.
Consistent with his reputation as an exceptional opener in the IPL, where he has amassed 3748 runs at an average of 39.04 and a strike rate of 148.49, he currently holds an impressive average of 83 across three games (strike rate 172.92). Notable performances include innings of 54 from 33 deliveries, 39 from 24, and an unbeaten 73 from 39.
Having appeared quite strained during the Champions Trophy, this cricketer is now excelling. What factors have contributed to Buttler’s improvement?
\”Yeah, I\’m feeling great. With a new team and a fresh tournament, clearly, I’m not leading England’s white-ball side anymore, so there’s no point stressing over that or dwelling on past performances. It certainly wasn’t easy; our form just wasn’t up to par. As a captain, anytime things aren’t going well for the team, it takes a personal hit. But this period has been rather enjoyable—I’ve focused more on my own game and honed my batting skills through practice,\” Buttler stated on Friday.
His England captaincy stint had started on a bright note when he led them to the 2022 T20 World Cup title in Australia, but he couldn’t get his side to repeat that showing again. The 2023 ODI World Cup in India didn’t go as per plan for the defending champions; they lost in the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup where also they were defending the title. The ICC Champions Trophy was the final nail which convinced him that his time as a leader was up.
So, what’s the difference between paying for club and country?
“Obviously, it is different, there is different pressure in the IPL, it’s a massive tournament, huge crowds, massive expectations, that adds to the pressure. When you are playing for your country, there is pressure of representing your country to do well and wanting to do well playing against the best teams (in the world). Managing that and not allowing it to affect your performances is sometimes easier said than done. It’s about trying to play your game and not be affected by the things that are happening outside your control,” Buttler said, explaining the high-pressure nature of the job in both the roles.
A dashing batter, Buttler, was among the players who first started to innovate and bat without fear to open the field for 360-degree strokeplay. Suryaumar Yadav is another of his ilk. It was interesting to see the two brilliant stroke-players exchange notes on the Narendra Modi Stadium ground during the warm-up ahead of the game between GT and MI, last week.
“I really enjoy watching Surya bat. He has been among the top performers in this format for quite some time now. Every time I watch him at bat, his scoop shot over fine leg always leaves me puzzled. I asked him more or less when he would show me how to play such a stroke. Watching batsmen perform and train brings me immense joy; however, that particular shot remains a mystery to me,” he stated.
Buttler has witnessed the transformation of cricket, moving from an era where only a few batsmen were recognized for their inventive shot-making skills, to today’s scenario where every player adopts this all-round approach known as the 360-degree game. Since making his international debut back in 2011 and subsequently entering the IPL, he has detailed the evolution of batting techniques.
Everybody consistently adheres to certain practices; however, some individuals become disruptors who introduce changes or innovations. If these innovators achieve success, others often follow their lead by emulating and copying them. As you mentioned, the evolution of cricket demonstrates this trend—most players have developed into well-rounded batsmen capable of scoring from anywhere on the field. Each player has a slightly different approach to taking risks, and what were once considered high-risk shots are now viewed differently. They spend considerable time practicing these techniques until they master them. This transformation highlights how the number of skilled hitters has increased significantly, making such plays seem less risky than before.
Therefore, what is essential for successfully performing those bold wicket shots? \”The key is commitment. When you execute them, you must be completely devoted.\”
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