England head coach Brendon McCullum has confirmed that Jos Buttler will not keep wickets in the upcoming T20I series against India. He explained that they want Buttler to have the freedom to communicate with the bowlers when needed. With Phil Salt and Jamie Smith available as wicketkeeping options, one of them is expected to take on the role.
Salt, who has performed well in T20Is over the last 18 months, is likely to open the batting alongside the captain. McCullum shared these details at a press conference on Monday, as reported by Sky Sports:
“The one thing he [Buttler] won’t be doing in this series is keeping wicket, he’s going to captain from the field. That’s a really positive thing for us because it gives Jos the opportunity to have the last say with the bowler and to have that relationship build at that last second instead of being 22 yards away.”
“We’ve got great [wicketkeeping] options within the side. We’ve got a really good squad; we’ve got lots of flexibility within the group.”
The visiting captain had a strong series in the West Indies late last year, scoring 125 runs in five matches at an average of 31.83, with a strike rate of 168.92. He led England to a 3-1 series win.
“He is thrilled with the team we have”- Brendon McCullum on Jos Buttler
Although Buttler faced challenges as captain in the last two ICC events, McCullum expects the keeper-batter to have a successful run in the role over the next few years. The 43-year-old shared his thoughts, as quoted by BBC Sport:
“He is excited about the team we have got and the opportunity that sits in front of us. I am sure we will see Jos over the next couple of years really enjoy himself and finish with a real strong enjoyment of the game at the back end of his career.”
The first T20I between the two teams is set to take place on January 22 in Kolkata.
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