Jos Buttler Not Ruling Out India and Australia’s Threat at the 2019 World Cup
Apr 10, 2019 at 6:47 PM
England’s prominent batsman Jos Buttler is cautious about the potential threat of India and Australia during the upcoming twelfth edition of the 2019 World Cup.
While considering both the teams, Buttler aims to kindle his team to glory. Buttler conceded that given to the success of Australia and India at distinct World Cups, the teams pose a major threat in the United Kingdom (UK).
So much so, Australia has won five World Cup titles apart from being runners-up on two occasions.
“Traditionally, in World Cups, India and Australia are up there as well,” Buttler told ToI.
England are one of the favourites: Jos Buttler
Besides, India went on to win the coveted title in 1983 and 2011. In 2015, the Men in Blue had made it to the semi-final when the World Cup was subsequently being played in Australia and New Zealand respectively.
Furthermore, unlucky England has made it to the three finals of the World Cup.
Meanwhile, Buttler is hoping to see Three Lions clinching their maiden World Cup title at home. The ODI showpiece will commence from May 30 in London.
With England’s limited-overs cricket pretty much secure in hands, Buttler feels England as a unit is one of the favourite teams in the lead up to the World Cup.
“We are one of the favourites. With so many good players from around the world and very strong teams participating, being a favourite doesn’t really count for much,” Buttler added.
Buttler reiterated No.1 ODI team England has done well, but the quadrennial event is altogether a different prospect on an offer.
Following the 2015 World Cup debacle, England had made a remarkable comeback to improve their game.
“We are playing some really good cricket. But World Cup tournaments – knockout tournaments – are always high-pressure situations,” Buttler stated.
Jos Buttler credits IPL:
Meanwhile, Buttler is participating in the ongoing IPL 2019 for Rajasthan Royals (RR). So far, in five matches, Buttler has amassed 176 runs in five outings.
Moreover, he’s opening the innings for Royals. Buttler has slammed two fifties which further saw him doing a decent job behind the stumps.
The 28-year-old Buttler will return home midway during the IPL, to prepare for the home-bound World Cup.
Buttler expressed delighted on seeing more England players making it to the IPL. Earlier, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) hasn’t shown much interest in sending their players to India. But with the time, the perception has changed which eventually paid rich dividends.
“Since more England players started playing in the IPL, selectors have been taking note of the performances in the league,” he added.
Buttler inferred by playing in the successful and lucrative league like IPL; it plays a significant role in boosting the morale of the players. He believes IPL has served as a medium to witness English cricketers breaking into the Test fold.
“Coming here and playing in the biggest tournament in the world and winning against the best players in a high-pressure environment, you gain a lot of confidence. Through the IPL, many players have got a chance to play in the England Test team,” Buttler concluded.
Buttler has been in some form and he is hopeful that it augurs well for him and his national team.