New Delhi, March 28 (NationPress) Jos Buttler, the wicketkeeper-batter for Gujarat Titans, expressed that the Indian Premier League (IPL) has profoundly shaped his cricketing journey. As the 19th edition of the tournament is set to kick off on Saturday, Buttler shared how discussions from his experiences in the IPL have greatly benefited him while playing for England across all formats.

With an impressive record of 121 matches, Buttler has amassed 4,120 runs, averaging 40 with a strike rate of 149.38, which includes seven centuries and 24 fifties. His outstanding performance in IPL 2025 saw him scoring 538 runs in 13 innings, boasting an impressive average of 59.8 and a strike rate of 163, forming a powerful top-order alongside Shubman Gill and B Sai Sudharsan.

“Absolutely – I firmly believe that the IPL has been the most significant influence on my cricket career. The lessons I've gathered during IPL seasons, along with the valuable interactions and relationships with coaches and players, have been instrumental.”

“The insights I've gained from the IPL have been invaluable in my performances for England, whether it’s in Test matches, T20s, or ODIs. It has had a tremendous impact on my game.”

“As Kevin Pietersen mentioned during his interview on my podcast, the chance to connect with someone like Rahul Dravid to refine my technique against spin has opened up remarkable opportunities that would otherwise be rare.”

“For example, I’ve spent a few days here talking to Matthew Hayden about batting—an opportunity I might not have had otherwise. It has truly been as impactful for me as it was for KP,” Buttler remarked in a virtual roundtable discussion with IANS on Saturday.

The reigning IPL champions, GT, are set to commence their campaign against Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh on March 31. Buttler’s ability to stabilize the innings while accelerating scoring makes him one of the most formidable players in the T20 format.

However, Buttler enters IPL 2026 following a subdued T20 World Cup, where he only scored 87 runs across eight innings. When asked if this IPL holds additional significance after his disappointing World Cup performance, Buttler affirmed that his mindset for the tournament remains unchanged, no matter past outcomes.

“This IPL is no more or less important than any previous ones I’ve participated in. Regardless of past performances, I approach each IPL with excitement, eager to contribute to the team and perform well. The challenge remains the same.”

“Can you prepare effectively? Can you maintain a positive mindset to maximize your performance? Whether I’ve been in good form or not, the challenge persists. I bring the same energy and commitment to the preparation, aiming to translate that into runs on the field.”

“The approach is consistent, irrespective of one’s form. I look forward to the IPL every year, eager to excel for my team, and I focus on what is needed on any given day,” he elaborated.

When questioned about identifying what went wrong during the T20 World Cup, Buttler remarked that there isn't a singular answer. He mentioned that relying on a trusted circle for advice and taking time away from cricket has allowed him to return to the IPL with clarity.

“There's a close circle of people I consult for their insights and opinions on my performance. I put substantial effort into the World Cup, but for various reasons, it didn’t pan out as expected.”

“Having the discipline to acknowledge that is crucial. I worked hard in a game full of uncontrollable factors, and everyone is striving to succeed. It simply didn’t go my way.”

“At 35, I have experienced both peaks and troughs in form over my 15-year career, along with tournaments that have gone well or poorly. It’s an ongoing process of reflection and self-evaluation. However, if there were a single secret to success, we would all be aware of it and score runs consistently.”

“I don't believe such a secret exists. Taking a break from the game has been refreshing, allowing me to reflect. Whether I score or not, the challenge remains the same: approach practice with enthusiasm and prepare diligently, then approach the game starting from scratch,” he explained.

Buttler concluded by praising uncapped Indian pacer Ashok Sharma, previously with Rajasthan Royals, noting that he possesses more than just raw pace. “Ashok has much more to offer than speed. He was a net bowler with Rajasthan for a considerable time, and I've faced him in the nets.”

“He played for Rajasthan last year, and I faced him in a practice match. He has pace, precision, and an excellent slower ball. He also possesses the heart necessary for a fast bowler. He has all the qualities to become an exciting fast bowler,” Buttler noted.