Jos Buttler is widely regarded as one of the top white-ball cricketers in the world. However, even the best can go through tough times. After an extraordinary season in the IPL 2022, where Buttler smashed 863 runs, expectations were sky-high. But over the next two seasons combined, the Englishman could only manage 800 runs — a noticeable dip in form that left fans and analysts surprised.
During this challenging period, Buttler found support and inspiration in an unexpected but fitting source — Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli.
Jos Buttler Approached Kohli for Mental Clarity During Tough Times
Speaking on the YouTube show For The Love Of Cricket with Stuart Broad, Buttler shared how he turned to Kohli when self-doubt began creeping in. “We were playing against RCB, and Virat was in the next nets. He just finished batting, and I wanted to go and ask him, ‘How do you manage expectations?’” Buttler said.
He explained that after his record-breaking season in 2022, trying to replicate that form felt mentally exhausting. Kohli, known for handling enormous pressure — with over a billion fans tracking his every move — offered a simple but powerful piece of advice.
“He was so generous with his time,” Buttler revealed. “He said, ‘You just have to accept that good season and not try to replicate it. The pressure you’re feeling is all internal. Life will be fine.’”
Kohli’s Candid Chat Made a Big Impact on Buttler
What struck Buttler most wasn’t just the advice, but Kohli’s honesty and humility. “He spoke about the insecurities he has about his own game and his practice. You think — this is arguably the best player of our generation, and yet he says, ‘Sometimes, I don’t know how to play.’”
Buttler walked away from the conversation not just reassured but inspired. He was amazed by how well Kohli understood his game and appreciated the openness with which he spoke about his own struggles.
The Rajasthan Royals batter highlighted how the IPL serves as more than just a tournament — it’s a global academy of cricket. “The IPL is the best academy in the world. You’re always learning — even if it’s not directly about white-ball cricket. Someone might be talking to AB de Villiers about red-ball technique, and that conversation can impact your next six or twelve months of cricket,” Buttler said.
He concluded by praising how Indian players, thanks to such exposure and learning environments, continue to elevate their game season after season.
