Jos Buttler is defining T20 batting, period! The notion of used-up balls not coming back, the Rajasthan Royals batter looking rusty after coming back from injury, him chewing up a few more deliveries to get set than desired were all thrown out of the window by Joseph Charles Buttler, who probably played a knock of a lifetime. Running out of partners, suffering cramps, not getting breathing space since he was the only recognised batter left and still Buttler was able to help the Royals chase down 224, the joint-highest successful chase in IPL history by them only, against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Tuesday, April 16.
Buttler was playing on 42 off just 33 balls before turning on the beast mode to smash the next 62 runs off just 22 deliveries. Buttler registered his seventh century in the IPL, his second this season, and both have come in successful chases. Buttler is now second on the list of batters with the most centuries in the IPL, just behind Virat Kohli as he broke the legendary Chris Gayle’s record, who has six tons to his name in the cash-rich league.
8 – Virat Kohli (RCB) in 244 matches
7 – Jos Buttler (RR) in 102 matches
6 – Chris Gayle (RCB/PBKS) in 142 matches
4 – KL Rahul (PBKS/LSG) in 124 matches
4 – David Warner (SRH/DC) in 182 matches
4 – Shane Watson (RR/CSK) in 145 matches
Buttler now has eight centuries in the T20 format and all of them have come in wins. This remarkable achievement echoes not only his sheer batting prowess but also the impeccable timing of his performances, having directly contributed to his team’s victories. It is a testament to Buttler’s impact on the game, particularly in the shortest format, where swift and explosive innings can change the course of the match within a few overs.
The explosive dynamics of T20 cricket have allowed batters like Buttler to shine, maximizing their ability to hit boundaries and turn the game on its head. His approach to the innings perfectly encapsulates the essence of modern T20 strategy, where the value of conserving wickets in hand can sometimes be secondary to maintaining an aggressive run rate.
In the context of Buttler’s career, his aggressive batting style has often been highlighted by critics and fans alike. With an aggressive mindset and the ability to execute a wide array of shots, Buttler has been a constant threat to bowlers in leagues around the world. The record he broke is indicative of a player in his prime, one who can influence the outcome of a match single-handedly.
Furthermore, the list of top T20 century scorers, alongside Buttler, speaks volume:
22 – Chris Gayle
11 – Babar Azam
9 – Virat Kohli
8 – David Warner
8 – Michael Klinger
8 – Aaron Finch
8 – Rohit Sharma
8 – Jos Buttler*
The Rajasthan Royals (RR) are currently reaping the benefits of Buttler’s form. With six wins in seven matches in IPL 2024, they are now firmly at the top of the table, while the Knight Riders have lost two of their last three encounters. It has now become a significant challenge for opposing teams strategizing to contain Buttler. His capacity to maintain a high strike rate throughout his innings allows him to not just set, but chase down imposing totals, as demonstrated in the match against KKR.
Buttler’s heroics are a reminder that individual brilliance still holds a pivotal place in a sport that increasingly emphasizes on strategies and team dynamics. His ability to monopolize the strike and anchor the innings to its conclusion is a skill few players possess, making him an asset to any team he plays for. As the IPL progresses, all eyes will be on Buttler to see if he can continue to build on his incredible form and lead Rajasthan Royals to further victories. His presence at the crease will undoubtedly remain a massive draw for cricket fans and a concern for bowlers and captains across the tournament.
