Jos Buttler optimistic of England's chances despite India's impressive start

Jos Buttler who made a comeback to the English Test team in the Mohali Test believed that England was in a strong position despite India’s impressive start with the bat in their 1st innings of the 4th Test in Mumbai. The right-handed wicket-keeper batsman batted pretty well during England’s first innings and notched up a superb 76 to propel England to score of 400 before India finished the day at 146/1 with Murali Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara at the crease.

“It was very pleasing to get runs when you feel like the team needs them,” said Buttler, who held the fort as four other English wickets tumbled around him.

“It’s always going to be tough when you first go in against two quality spinners, But some of the experiences I’ve had in the last year, playing in front of crowds with the noise and carnage that is going on around you.”

“Learning to deal with that helps you to stay calm in that situation and I’ve always felt like I enjoyed batting against spin.”

Buttler was happy with England’s first innings total and remained optimistic. “I really enjoyed my time in the middle and getting us up to what we feel is a good score to have on the board,” added Buttler. He felt that despite India’s brilliant start England had the upper hand in the Test match.

“Those two guys (Vijay and Pujara) played very well for India but we still lead by 250,” the 26-year-old told reporters.

“If we can be a bit more consistent and when we build the pressure there’s definitely wicket-taking balls on that surface.” Buttler who returned to the Test team in the last Test said that his break from international cricket helped him think about his future and come back as a better player. Buttler has been part of the Playing XI as a specialist batsman while regular wicket-keeper Jonny Bairstow has done the glove work.

“You play so much cricket that actually sometimes there’s not enough time to think… about what is vital to me to get the best out of myself.”

“I feel like (over) the last year I’ve learnt the most about myself and cricket (than) in my whole career,” he said candidly.

Buttler stated that one of the biggest things which he has learnt from his international cricket break is the amount of confidence and strength of belief that top players have it in themselves.

“That’s something I have to have in my game — that I’m confident that when I get a chance I’m going to perform.”

“No one can do it for you. You can receive great advice but you’ve got to believe in yourself,” he concluded.