Buttler Frustrated by Lean World Cup Run but Refuses to Curb Aggression

Jos Buttler has admitted to feeling “frustrated” by his lack of runs at the ongoing T20 World Cup but insists he will not dial down his natural attacking game as England head into the Super Eight stage.

The England captain surpassed 4,000 T20I runs during his side’s victory over Italy on Monday, yet just 53 of those have come in four innings at this tournament. His recent struggles extend beyond the World Cup, with only one half-century in his last 16 T20 innings for England and Durban’s Super Giants, and a highest score of 38 in five ODI innings this winter.

Buttler began the tournament with scores of 26 against Nepal and 21 versus West Indies before falling for 3 in successive matches against Scotland and Italy, both times caught at mid-off attempting to clear the infield during the Powerplay.

Speaking on his For the Love of Cricket podcast, Buttler acknowledged his disappointment.

“I’m a bit frustrated, to be honest,” he said. “I felt like I was playing really well in South Africa in the SA20 without getting the scores. One thing I’ve always prided myself on in T20s is, if you get in, to be able to go on and make a good contribution. I’ve been getting starts but not turning them into something substantial.”

The England skipper suggested he may have been “trying a bit too hard” rather than staying relaxed at the crease. While he is eager to make meaningful contributions, he remains committed to his proactive approach.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain urged Buttler on Sky Sports to “give yourself a bit of a chance” following England’s win over Italy, which secured their progression. However, Buttler believes the nature of T20 cricket leaves little room for conservatism.

“In Test cricket, you might be told to rein it in and just bat for an hour to find rhythm,” Buttler explained. “But in T20, you’ve got to keep playing the scoreboard. If you’re chasing 10 an over, you have to play accordingly. I’d love to bat for 15 overs, but not just for myself and ignore the game situation.”

England now turn their attention to the Super Eight stage, where they will face Sri Lanka, Pakistan and New Zealand. Their first fixture is against Sri Lanka in Pallekele on Sunday afternoon.

Buttler acknowledged the challenge ahead, particularly with Sri Lanka’s recent form and opener Pathum Nissanka’s century against Australia earlier in the tournament.

“They’ve been playing some good cricket,” Buttler said. “It’s a one-off World Cup game. Previous form doesn’t count for much. The 3pm start is interesting — part of the game is played in darkness — so conditions could change. We’ll have to be at our best.”

Despite his struggles, Buttler remains confident that a return to basics — “stand still, watch the ball and trust yourself” — will help him rediscover the form that has made him one of the most destructive batters in the shortest format.