IPL 2024: Shah Rukh Khan’s gesture to Jos Buttler after KKR ‘s loss turns heads

Jos Buttler and Shah Rukh Khan. (Source -IPL/BCCI)

Rajasthan Royals’ opener Jos Buttler stole the show in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match, marking his name in the tournament’s history books. Buttler’s unbeaten century propelled the Royals to a monumental achievement, securing the ‘biggest-ever run-chase in IPL history’ by successfully chasing down 224 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

Facing the challenge of battling both cramps and a lack of support from his teammates, Buttler exhibited sheer determination as he hammered 107 runs off just 60 deliveries, guiding his team to victory at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Following the match, even KKR co-owner Shah Rukh Khan couldn’t contain his admiration for Buttler’s stellar performance. Their post-match encounter, captured in a heartwarming video, quickly grabbed the attention of fans across the internet.

In the viral video, Shah Rukh Khan can be seen acknowledging Buttler’s efforts by urging him to remain seated, acknowledging the physical strain he endured during his innings. However, Buttler’s sportsmanship shone through as he rose, greeted the Bollywood icon, and embraced him warmly.

Reflecting on his innings, Buttler confessed to harboring doubts about his team’s chances of victory. Yet, he emphasized the importance of maintaining belief, drawing inspiration from unlikely sources like golfer Max Holmes. Drawing parallels with cricketing legends such as Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni, Buttler credited their resilience and self-belief as guiding principles during challenging moments.

“Keep believing, that was the real key today. At times, felt like I was struggling a bit for rhythm. Actually have been watching the golf and I saw a guy called Max Holmes. Anytime the negative thoughts come, I think the complete opposite and dare to dream. That’s what kept me going. At times you feel frustrated or you are questioning yourself. I was trying to tell myself it’d be okay, keep going, you’ll get your rhythm back and try to stay calm,” said Buttler as quoted by NDTV.

Also Read: ‘Bitter pill to swallow’ – Shreyas Iyer disappointed after Kolkata loses to Rajasthan at home

Guys like Dhoni and Kohli, the way they stay till the end and keep believing, I was trying to do the same: Buttler

Acknowledging the invaluable advice received from cricketing icon Kumar Sangakkara, Buttler underscored the significance of patience and composure in navigating difficult phases. Sangakkara’s wisdom, coupled with Buttler’s resolve to stay the course proved instrumental in his match-winning innings.

“There’s been plenty of times throughout the IPL, when you’ve seen crazy things happen. Guys like Dhoni and Kohli, the way they stay till the end and keep believing, you’ve seen it so many times in the IPL and I was trying to do the same. That’s something Kumar Sangakkara has told me a lot – there’s always a little breaking point. The worst thing you can do when you are not feeling your best is to fight it and try to force the issue and give your wicket away. He just tells me to stay there and at some point, the momentum will change or you’ll find your rhythm or one shot will get you going.

“That’s been a big part of my play over the last few years – try to stay the course and not get in my own way. (His greatest IPL innings?) I would think so. Anytime you’re not out at the end to see your team through, especially off the last ball, in a big run-chase, very satisfying,” he concluded.