Ahmedabad: Jos Buttler, a seasoned top-order player for the Gujarat Titans, felt a little “strange” playing against his old team, the Rajasthan Royals, but he was more “desperate” to win the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
After spending seven seasons with Rajasthan, Buttler was left off of their retention list before the 18th edition of the lucrative league. The Titans purchased him after paying a hefty Rs 15.75 crore in last year’s super auction.
The former English white-ball captain enjoyed the challenge after starting a new adventure, and his “success” narrative persisted in Ahmedabad despite the limelight of his past.
Gujarat was rocked early when the Royals sent the Titans to bat, as captain Shubman Gill was the first to fall. Buttler took responsibility for pulling GT out of the predicament and forged a crucial 80-run partnership to pave the way for an intimidating 200-plus total.
Maheesh Theekshana ended Buttler’s stay on 36 (25) as he turned the ball sharply into him and pinned the Englishman in front of the stumps, ending his night.
Being on the opposing team against the Rajasthan Royals did seem a little odd. However, I must admit that my desire for the victory today was much greater. It was a great team effort, in my opinion. The new challenge is a lot of fun. It’s nothing new to me, since I’ve been batting at No. 3 for England lately,” the player said on JioHotstar.
Buttler has welcomed the number three position with open arms. As an opener, he has shown superiority in the white-ball format. Buttler is relieved that Gill and Sai Sudharsan, who are playing well, take the early swing and let him walk out when the ball begins coming in straight at the bat.
“It helps that I’m following two outstanding openers who often provide a solid foundation. They take care of every swing, and when the ball stops moving, I get to enter, which is really pleasant,” he said.
Gujarat’s victory by 58 runs was a tale of unfair traffic. Rajasthan chose to bowl even though they had won the toss, but it backfired as Gujarat crushed the Royals in their home lair and blazed their way to a commanding 217/6. Rajasthan lost by a total of 58 runs in reply, and their ongoing wicket loss did not assist their case.
