Gujarat Titans Face Major Blow as Jos Buttler Exits for ODI Series

Jos Buttler's Departure from IPL Playoffs

In a significant setback for the Gujarat Titans, reports indicate that Jos Buttler will not participate in the playoffs. The English cricketer is set to return to England to join the ODI series against the West Indies, which kicks off on May 30.

The IPL league stage concludes on May 27, and Buttler will depart India following the Titans' final league match on that date. The team has three remaining matches in the league, and the talented wicketkeeper-batter will be available for all of them before his exit.

Potential Replacement for Buttler

Sources suggest that Sri Lankan wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis is poised to step in for Buttler in the playoffs, should the Titans qualify, which appears likely. This will mark Mendis' debut in the IPL, as he has not participated in any previous seasons. Currently, he is engaged with the Quetta Gladiators in the PSL but will not travel to Pakistan when the league resumes on May 17, coinciding with the IPL's return.

Buttler has been a key player for the England white-ball team and has been selected for the ODI series alongside other notable players like Jofra Archer, Jacob Bethell, Will Jacks, and Jamie Overton. While Archer and Overton have opted out of the remainder of the IPL, it remains uncertain if Bethell and Jacks will follow Buttler's lead.