Jos Buttler, the opener for the Rajasthan Royals, was the star of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 encounter, securing his place in the annals of tournament history. Thanks to Buttler’s undefeated century, the Royals accomplished an incredible feat, winning the ‘biggest-ever run chase in IPL history’ as they chased down 224 runs against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
Despite having to contend with cramping and his teammates’ lack of support, Buttler showed unwavering will by smashing 107 runs off of just 60 deliveries to lead his team to victory at Kolkata’s storied Eden Gardens. Even KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan was overcome with praise for Buttler’s outstanding performance after the game. A touching video of their post-match interaction rapidly went viral online, drawing in fans from all around the world.
In the widely shared video, Shah Rukh Khan is seen encouraging Buttler to stay seated in recognition of the physical hardship he sustained during his innings. Buttler stood up, welcomed the Bollywood legend, and gave him a hearty embrace, demonstrating his sportsmanship nonetheless.
Shah Rukh Khan is appreciating Jos Buttler ❤.. Truly he is the most Humble Superstar of India 🥺 pic.twitter.com/1ZG5ydyrNj
— Riyaz (@RiyazSrkian) April 16, 2024
Buttler admitted to having misgivings about his team’s chances of winning when he thought back on his inning. He did, however, stress the need to holding onto your beliefs, taking his cues from improbable people like golfer Max Holmes. Buttler drew comparisons between himself and cricket greats like Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni, attributing their fortitude and self-assurance to virtues that helped them through difficult times.
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“The true secret to success today was to never give up. I occasionally felt like my beat was a little off. In fact, I was watching golf, and I noticed a man named Max Holmes. I dare to dream and think the exact opposite if I start having negative ideas. That’s what got me through. You may have moments of frustration or self-doubt. “I tried to tell myself it’d be okay, keep going, you’ll find your rhythm again, and maintain your composure,” Buttler stated, as reported by NDTV.
I was attempting to emulate players like Dhoni and Kohli, who persevere until the very end and never give up. Jos Buttler
Buttler emphasized the need of patience and poise in getting through challenging times, acknowledging the priceless guidance he received from cricket legend Kumar Sangakkara. Sangakkara’s insight and perseverance allowed Buttler to score the game-winning knock.
There have been many instances during the IPL where bizarre things have occurred. You’ve seen it so many times in the IPL when guys like Dhoni and Kohli stick with it until the very end and never give up. I was attempting to follow suit. There’s always a little breaking point; Kumar Sangakkara has warned me many times. Fighting it and trying to force the issue and give up your wicket is the worst thing you can do when you’re not feeling your best. He simply tells me to stay put, and eventually you’ll find your rhythm, the momentum will shift, or one shot will spark you into action.
“Trying to stick with it and not get in my own way has been a major component of my play over the past few years.” (His best-ever IPL game?) I would assume that. It’s quite nice to finish a big run chase without being out as a team member, especially when that happens off the final ball,” he said.