Rajasthan Royals (RR) wicket-keeper batsman Jos Buttler had an unusual start to this edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). Kings XI Punjab skipper Ravichandran Ashwin mankaded him to change the course of the game and eventually won the game as well. Buttler recently opened up on the same and admitted that the dismissal disappointed him to the core.
Meanwhile, the incident garnered criticism from all round the corner. Many questioned Ravichandran Ashwin’s sportsman spirit, and since then batsmen have been cautious before leaving the crease. On the other hand, few have given warnings to the non-strikers showing how the game should be played. One of the cleanest hitters of the cricket ball, clearly stated that it disappointed him. Interestingly, this was not the first time Jos Buttler got out similarly.
“I was disappointed. It doesn’t happen often in cricket, but when it does it actually is disappointing. Unfortunately, I have got out in a similar fashion before as well, so I will make sure it doesn’t happen again,” Buttler said to TOI.
Divulging on the heated chat he had with Ravichandran Ashwin after the dismissal, Jos Buttler said he asked whether Ashwin wants to play the game that way. He also urged the Punjab skipper whether it was the right thing. Soon after that, Buttler only puts things into perspective saying it was right in his opinion and he did it. Also, the England cricketer added that he has moved from that incident and don’t want to spend time thinking about it.
“I just asked him if he really wishes to play the game that way. Whether he thought it was the right thing to do. And he obviously thought it was, in his opinion,” he added.
Being favourite doesn’t count in World Cup
Meanwhile, England are tipped as one of the title contenders in the upcoming ICC World Cup. The top-ranked ODI side will play at home, and this will be their opportunity to lift the trophy. England have played some outstanding cricket in the last 18 months and will be going into the showpiece event with all guns blazing. However, Jos Buttler feels that tag doesn’t matter in these big events despite admitting that they are one of the favourites. The 12th edition of the World Cup will start from May 30 with England taking on South Africa.
“We are one of the favourites. Traditionally, in World Cup, India and Australia are up there as well. We are playing some really good cricket. But World Cup tournaments, knockout tournaments are always high-pressure situations. With so many good players from around the world and very strong teams participating, being a favourite does not really count too much,” he concluded.