Buttler driven by 'embarrassment' to produce match-winning half-century

Buttler Turns ‘Embarrassment’ Into Motivation for Match-Winning Knock

Sometimes, a low moment sparks something special. Jos Buttler dropped a regulation catch off Phil Salt in the first over of Gujarat Titans’ clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru—and that lapse became the fuel for a stunning response with the bat.

Already boasting an impressive average of 94.66 against RCB since 2022, Buttler needed little extra motivation. But after that early drop, he admitted feeling "pretty embarrassed," especially given Salt’s destructive potential. Determined to make amends, he delivered a match-winning, unbeaten 73 off just 39 balls, striking five fours and six sixes.

"I was pretty embarrassed, especially with Salty. He's a dangerous player," Buttler said. "I barely got a glove on it, it hit me in the chest. But due to that embarrassment, I was pretty determined to try and score some runs."

His powerful innings helped chase down RCB’s 169, a total that could have been lower had GT been sharper in the field—something Buttler acknowledged.

"I thought the bowlers did a fantastic job. We probably could've been chasing less if we fielded better, myself included."

The knock also marked a shift in Buttler’s mindset after a rough stretch as England's white-ball captain. “I had a few months of pretty unenjoyable cricket,” he admitted. “So I’m trying to play with freedom, with intent, and make the most of this opportunity with a new team and franchise.”

Now batting at No. 3 for Gujarat Titans—unlike his usual opening role at Rajasthan Royals—Buttler seems to be finding his groove. Bought for INR 15.75 crore at the IPL 2025 auction, he's already the season's third-highest run-scorer, with 166 runs at a strike rate of 172.91.

Gujarat Titans currently sit fourth on the table with two wins in three games and face Sunrisers Hyderabad next, on April 6.

Catch the match live updates, highlights, and full match coverage on CricRadio. Get fast, accurate, and ad-free updates throughout the game. Download the CricRadio app from the Play Store to stay connected. You can also get the live scores of cricket series directly on the CricRadio website for real-time coverage.