NEW DELHI: Jos Buttler sat out Rajasthan Royals' match against Punjab Kings due to injury, but upon his return, the Englishman orchestrated a remarkable performance, single-handedly leading his team to IPL's record chase against Kolkata Knight Riders at the packed Eden Gardens on Wednesday.
Facing a daunting task after
Sunil Narine
's explosive 109 off 56 deliveries propelled KKR to a commanding total of 223/6, Buttler showcased immense grit and determination.
Despite evident signs of discomfort towards the end, Buttler spearheaded Rajasthan Royals' charge, smashing an unbeaten 107 off just 60 balls.
Former Indian spinner
Harbhajan Singh
showered praise on Buttler for his heroic display, labeling him a 'special player'.
However, Harbhajan also slammed
Riyan Parag
, who impressed with a brisk 34 off 14 deliveries but then carelessly surrendered his wicket to Harshit Rana.
"He (Buttler) is a special player. He is a different-level player. He is calm and composed. Whenever he got the chance, he hit sixes, fours and grabbed singles and doubles. When the other players are getting out, it is important to hold your batting and play your own game. A lot of youngsters need to learn from Buttler's innings. Riyan is a talented player. He scored 34 runs but this is how matches are won. You need to be there, you need to hold the fort," Harbhajan told Star Sports.
"You have that clear mindset to play which shot to play against which bowler. This is not the first time
Jos Buttler
has done it. He has done this several times and I am sure we will see him do this a lot more time in the future as well. He is one of the legends of the game," the former spinner said.
WATCH:
Rajasthan Royals, who are on top of the points tally with 6 wins and 1 loss in 7 matches, will face Lucknow Super Giants at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on April 27.
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