Gujarat Titans' Jos Buttler Rediscovering His Batting Form in IPL

Jos Buttler has found his batting form and freedom in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after stepping down as England's white-ball captain, scoring a match-winning 73 not out for Gujarat Titans.

Jos Buttler, the Gujarat Titans player, is experiencing a newfound sense of freedom in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after a challenging period with the England national team. Unencumbered by the pressures of captaincy, Buttler is reveling in the opportunity to bat without the weight of responsibility.

Buttler's tenure as England's white-ball captain was marked by disappointment, as the team failed to defend their T20 and ODI World Cup titles. The 32-year-old's leadership was also marred by a group-stage exit in the Champions Trophy, prompting him to step down as captain in February.

Jos Buttler's move to the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL) appears to have rejuvenated his batting form. After struggling with inconsistency for an extended period, Buttler has rediscovered his touch, becoming the league's third-highest scorer with two fifties in just three matches.

Buttler's impressive form was on full display during Gujarat's eight-wicket victory over the previously unbeaten Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Wednesday. He scored an unbeaten 73 off 39 balls, showcasing his signature aggressive style. “I was trying to play with lots of freedom, lots of intent,” Buttler explained in the post-match interview. Reflecting on his recent past, he added, “I had a few months of pretty unenjoyable cricket, so trying to make sure I'm out there giving my best, and obviously a new team, new franchise, and excited to be here.”

Jos Buttler's determination to perform well with the bat was fueled by a moment of embarrassment earlier in the match. The Gujarat Titans wicketkeeper-batsman had dropped Bengaluru opener Phil Salt in the first over, a mistake that left him eager to make amends. “I was pretty embarrassed, especially with (dropping) Salty. He's a dangerous player,” Buttler admitted after the match.

Buttler's drop was a costly one, as the ball barely grazed his glove before hitting him in the chest. However, he channelled his frustration into a strong batting performance, helping Gujarat secure their second win in three matches. “I barely got a glove on it, it hit me in the chest. But due to that embarrassment, I was pretty determined to try and score some runs.”

In the larger context of the Indian Premier League, Gujarat's win keeps them in contention, although they still trail behind table-toppers Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals. Both Punjab and Delhi have won their first two matches, setting the pace for the rest of the 10-team league.

Jos Buttler said, "I was pretty embarrassed with myself after that drop, but due to that embarrassment I was determined to do well with the bat". pic.twitter.com/liErBt8A8t

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) April 2, 2025