England wicket-keeper batsman Jos Buttler is unarguably one of the finest wicket-keeper batsmen in limited-overs cricket at present. Be it opening the batting or playing as a finisher, Buttler has done both jobs incredibly well in his illustrious career. When it comes to big-hitting and finishing, he has learned the trade from none other than the great MS Dhoni, who remains an inspiration for several cricketers across the world.
Having recently gotten a precious gift by Dhoni – his No. 7 jersey – during the match against Chennai Super Kings, Buttler received one of the most prize memorabilia for his wardrobe. Speaking of his admiration for Dhoni in an interview with the Times of India, Buttler highlighted one of those moments that made he fall in love with the player Dhoni is.
“I like his demeanour on the field. How cool and calm he is. I like his explosive batting, the helicopter shot. I always watched the IPL on TV. I remember some of the great innings he has played. One thing I really love is the 2011 World Cup final. How he walked out to bat and said I am going to see this home. That was inspiring and the way he finished the game with a six. It always resonated with me,” Buttler was quoted as saying.
The 2011 World Cup final arguably remains the biggest achievement in Dhoni’s career. Be it the trophy-winning six or his decision to promote himself in the batting order, the epic cricket match holds a special place in India’s sporting history.
While Dhoni has struggled for form this season in the IPL, Buttler has produced a few match-winning performances for Rajasthan. Speaking of the pressure of playing in the IPL which remains the most lucrative T20 leagues in the world, Buttler admitted that the price tag does add to the expectations of fans from a player.
“Price tag adds to the expectations. It’s another skill you have to learn. The best players can put that aside and focus on the ball coming to you. When Ben Stokes and me bat together, we are just concentrating on the ball. We don’t really think of outside expectations. I don’t try bat in one way and try playing the situation,” he asserted.
Buttler remained unbeaten on 22 as Rajasthan Royals secured a 7-wicket win over Kings XI Punjab in the IPL on Friday to keep their playoffs hopes alive.
