India will be aggressive, We’ll be ready for that: Jos Buttler on taking on Rohit Sharma’s Side in the Semis

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Jos Buttler

England captain Jos Buttler has issued a subtle warning for the Indian team ahead of the T20 World Cup semi-final clash at the Providence Stadium in Guyana on June 27, Thursday. Buttler acknowledges that India will come with a fully aggressive approach, and England is prepared to respond in kind.

Jos Buttler’s Ready for Intent driven India’s approach

The upcoming semi-final is a rematch of the 2022 T20 World Cup, where England defeated India in the semi-finals. However, this time, India’s approach has shifted significantly under Rohit Sharma’s leadership. The Indian team now plays with a lot of freedom and aggression, which Buttler recognizes. He specifically praises Rohit’s leadership and batting style, emphasizing the change in India’s approach since their previous encounter.

“I think you plan everything to go well and, of course, there will be a time in the game when you are playing such a good team like India. You will be under pressure, and you will be forced to be reactive and try and throw the punches back. This time we are playing against a very different India side and the way Rohit leads his team and how he bats especially,” Buttler said in a video posted by the England Cricket Board on their website.

“They play with a hell of a lot of freedom so they will be very aggressive, which probably was a shift for them after the tournament, and they played like that in the 50-over World Cup as well. I think they are very confident in that style of play and, yes, we need to be ready for that. Like every other game, we sort of have to assess the conditions and how the wicket will play or what will be the good score. But we know that they will be aggressive, and we will do the same,” Buttler added.

India enters the semi-final unbeaten in the T20 World Cup 2024, having won all six of their matches. In contrast, England had a topsy-turvy ride in the group stage but dominated the Super 8s, except for a close loss to South Africa. The defending champions are well aware of India’s threat and are eager to counter-attack. Buttler’s words set the stage for an exciting clash between two cricket giants, where aggression and adaptability will be key factors.