ECB has been forward-thinking to rotate the players in and out of this series: Jos Buttler

England cricketer Jos Buttler said on Saturday that after going through bio-bubble, it becomes difficult for the cricketers to feature in every match as it takes a toll. England are ready to face India in upcoming four Tests starting on February 5. The first two Tests will be played at Chepauk and the last two at Motera. Buttler will return home after the first Test and then return for the ODI series.

“It is certainly a challenge, it is hard to say that the situation is quite difficult as there are some people in the world, who are in a tough situation at the moment looking at the pandemic and lockdown, we are very fortunate to play cricket and do what we love, but having said that, it is quite challenging to spend time away from our families, having your family locked up in hotels can be quite difficult,” Buttler, England’s keeper-batsman told during a virtual press conference.

Advertisement

Jonny Bairstow will not be available for the first two Tests and expected to join the side after the second Test. While the former players believe that England must go for the best playing XI, rotating should not be the priority.

“ECB has been forward-thinking to rotate the players in and out of this series, at times there is frustration because you want to see the best players on show all the time, but it is just not possible looking at the time spent in the bubble. Looking at the short-term goals is important, there is no certainty if you look too far ahead,” he added.

Speaking about the batting order, Buttler said: “Obviously, there are some different faces with us this time around, some young guys who are at the start of their careers and for some, this is their first tour in Asia. Dom Sibley, Zack Crawley, and Rory Burns are some guys who can occupy the crease for a long time. Spending time in India helps you understand the magnitude of the game here, it is a huge challenge for us to play against India in India.”

“It is about adapting to the conditions and playing accordingly, when the ball swings in England, a good first innings score can be 300. When you play in India, if we play on a fantastic wicket, the good score would be 600, understanding and realisation of scoring big runs is the key. Root was a fantastic example of us as he scored 200 and 180+ in Sri Lanka,” he added.

England arrived in India on Wednesday after defeating Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series. Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and Rory Burnes arrived early as the they were rested for the series against Sri Lanka.