Following his impressive performance of 60 runs off just 37 balls against the Lucknow Super Giants, Jos Buttler acknowledged the significant influence of Matthew Hayden, the former Australian cricket star, on his recent resurgence after a disappointing T20 World Cup with England. Hayden, known for his formidable batting skills, has been appointed as the batting coach for the Gujarat Titans.
Buttler recounted that a pivotal moment in their early interactions was a straightforward yet impactful question posed by Hayden. “He asked me during one of our initial sessions, ‘How well are you watching the ball? It doesn’t seem like you’re tracking it effectively.’ It’s remarkable how great players can offer such simple yet profound advice. He’s been a tremendous help,” Buttler shared with JioHotstar following the Titans’ seven-wicket victory over the Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.
He expressed his enjoyment in working with Hayden, noting the coach’s commanding presence and the respect he commands when he speaks. “He has a significant presence, and when he talks, you pay attention,” Buttler remarked.
During the recent T20 World Cup, Buttler struggled, accumulating just 87 runs across eight innings, averaging 10.87 with a strike rate of 116.00. He mentioned that taking some time away from the sport contributed to his batting improvement. “Having a little distance from the game allowed me to reflect, and things started to click for me,” he explained in the post-match interview.
Buttler emphasized that he had concentrated on refining his fundamentals during his time in the IPL. “I believe a few technical flaws may have hindered my ability to see the ball clearly. It’s challenging to perform well when you’re not picking up the ball effectively. Thus, I focused on my pre-delivery routine and trusting my instincts. After playing for 15 years, I know how to approach the game,” he stated.
Additionally, he highlighted the positive impact of having his family accompany him throughout the IPL season. “With the intensity and busyness of cricket, it’s refreshing to have them here. It provides a welcome distraction from the game and allows me to spend quality time with them,” he concluded.
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