Jos Buttler Backs Glenn Phillips Ahead of IPL 2026 Season

In a recent media roundtable, Jos Buttler, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter for Gujarat Titans, expressed his unwavering confidence in Glenn Phillips ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Despite Phillips' limited opportunities in the past, Buttler praised his impressive T20 track record and versatility as a player. He emphasized that Phillips' skills as a batter, off-spin bowler, and exceptional fielder make him a valuable asset for the team. With the IPL 2026 season set to kick off on March 28, all eyes will be on Phillips to see how he performs when given the chance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 28, 2026, 20:20 IST

Buttler's Confidence in Phillips

Jos Buttler, the experienced wicketkeeper-batter for Gujarat Titans (GT), has voiced his strong belief in Glenn Phillips, asserting that the right-handed batter will make significant contributions whenever given the opportunity in the upcoming IPL 2026 season.

During a media roundtable prior to the IPL 2026, Buttler noted that Phillips has not had as many chances as one might expect, despite his impressive history in T20 cricket. He emphasized that the decisions regarding team selection rest with the captain and selectors. Buttler praised the New Zealand player as a remarkable talent with a consistent track record, highlighting his dual capability to bat and bowl off-spin, along with his outstanding fielding skills.

Praise for Phillips' Skills

"I’m neither a selector nor the captain, so that’s a discussion for them. Glenn Phillips is an exceptional player; he has achieved considerable success in T20 cricket over the years. He is a dynamic athlete, a fantastic batter, capable of bowling off-spin, and one of the finest fielders globally," Buttler remarked. He reiterated that Phillips is a valuable asset due to his versatility, which provides numerous options for the team management. Buttler expressed confidence in Phillips' potential impact when given the chance.

"He offers the captain and coach a variety of options, and I’m confident he will excel when he gets his opportunity. However, in the IPL, as I’ve mentioned before, it’s the premier tournament globally, featuring the best players, and only four overseas players can participate. Sometimes, it simply comes down to opportunity. I believe that when Glenn gets his chance, he will shine," Buttler added.

Phillips' IPL Career Overview

At 29 years old, Phillips has played for two franchises in the IPL. He made his debut with Rajasthan Royals in 2021, participating in three matches and scoring 26 runs. In the 2023 season, he represented Sunrisers Hyderabad, accumulating 39 runs across five matches. Subsequently, he was picked up by the Gujarat franchise during the 2025 auction for ₹2 crore but was sidelined that season due to an injury. Nevertheless, the franchise has retained him for the 2026 season.

Upcoming IPL 2026 Season

The IPL 2026 season is scheduled to commence on March 28, with the defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) facing off against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Gujarat Titans will play their opening match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on March 31 in Mullanpur.