England’s wicket-keeper batsman Jos Buttler is relishing the opportunity to bat as an opener in the ongoing series against Australia. Buttler has revealed that opening the innings is his favourite position to bat in the T20 format. In fact, Buttler’s batting position has been a topic of discussion in the recent past as he can not only provide a quick start to his team but he also has the skills to add the finishing touches.
The combative right-hander has impressive numbers as an T20I opener as he has scored 459 runs in 10 innings at an average of 51. Buttler has had a brilliant summer as he has continued his Test form into the white ball version. The 29-year old right-hander has returned with scores of 44 and an unbeaten 77 in the ongoing series against Australia.
In fact, Buttler’s promotion to the opening slot was also helpful for IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals in 2018. The right-hander had scored 548 runs in 13 matches in IPL 2018 at an impressive average of 54.8 with the help of five half-centuries, all of which came while opening the innings.
Buttler can make great use of the powerplay overs, when only two fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle. Overall, he has scored 1455 runs in 71 T20I at an average of 28.53 and strike rate of 140.17.
“It (opening) probably is my favourite position to bat in T20 cricket,” said Buttler. “I’ve had most of my success in T20 at the top, but that’s natural – if you bat in the top three in T20, it’s the best place for everyone.
“We’ve probably got eight or nine guys who’d stick their hand up to bat in the top three; I’m very happy there, but I’m also very happy to do whatever the team needs of me.”
England’s captain Eoin Morgan had revealed that Buttler would be opening the innings before the series against Australia. Morgan had also stated that they wouldn’t change the opening combination if they don’t feel the need to do so.
Buttler has been at his best in the whole summer and he is continuing his good form. The right-hander had also scored 265 runs in the three matches against Pakistan and thus he was awarded the Player of the series.
The final T20I between England and Australia will take place at Rose Bowl, Southampton on 8th September.
