Jos Buttler's Struggles Continue in IPL 2026 Opener Against Punjab Kings

Gujarat Titans vs Punjab Kings: Match Overview

In the IPL 2026 match on March 31, Jos Buttler of the Gujarat Titans faced challenges against the Punjab Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh. Batting first after being invited by PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer, the Titans managed to score a total of 162 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in their 20 overs.

Shubman Gill was the standout performer for Gujarat, scoring 39 runs off 27 balls. Buttler contributed with 38 runs from 33 balls, while Glenn Phillips added 25 runs off 17 deliveries, helping the team reach a competitive score.

Bowling Highlights from Punjab Kings

Vijaykumar Vyshak was the star bowler for Punjab, taking 3 wickets for 34 runs in his four overs, maintaining an economy rate of 8.5. Yuzvendra Chahal also played a crucial role, claiming 2 wickets for 28 runs, including those of Gill and Buttler, at an economy rate of 7.

Buttler's Performance Under Scrutiny

Jos Buttler's performance was closely watched as he entered the match following a disappointing T20 World Cup 2026, where he scored only 87 runs at an average of 10.87 across 8 matches. His struggles continued in the IPL opener, where he scored 38 runs off 33 balls.

His innings can be divided into two phases: initially, he scored 18 runs off 17 balls after coming in at 37/1, and later added just 20 runs off 16 balls, failing to accelerate when needed.

Social Media Reactions to Buttler's Form

Buttler's slow innings sparked discussions on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), where fans expressed concerns about his ability to finish matches for the Titans. Many criticized his performance, labeling him as 'out of touch' and questioning his future role in the team.

Some fans reminisced about his past achievements while others suggested that the franchise might need to explore alternative options for the finisher role.

Historical Context of Buttler's Career

Since joining the Gujarat Titans in 2025 after being released by the Rajasthan Royals, Buttler had a successful season, scoring 576 runs at an average of 57.60 in 15 matches. Over his IPL career, he has accumulated 4158 runs, including 7 centuries and 24 fifties, with an average of 39.98 and a strike rate of 148.77 in 122 matches.

In T20 cricket, Buttler has scored 13845 runs, featuring 8 centuries and 98 fifties, with an average of 34.96 and a strike rate of 146.16 across 493 matches.