Former PBKS all-rounder Irfan Pathan has backed English T20 veteran Jos Buttler to continue his great form in the upcoming edition of the IPL. He described Ashish Nehra’s mentality as a real encouraging factor for the star batsman.
Gujarat Titans will face off against PBKS in the opening match of IPL 2026 on 31st March 2026. After the Titans top-order scored 700+, 500+ and 400+ runs last season, once again, they will be largely dependent on their overseas cricketers and Jos Buttler for the upcoming season.
Irfan Pathan backs Jos Buttler to return to great form ahead of IPL 2026
Former Punjab Kings all-rounder Irfan Pathan said that although Gujarat Titans’ batting trump card Jos Buttler was not in form in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, he will be back in promising form for the franchise.
“Ashish Nehra knows how to bring out the best from the players. He knows very well that if he comes even a few days early, we will have nothing left to teach him. But it is important to give him a promising environment,” said the PBKS all-rounder.
Irfan Pathan further claimed that Jos Buttler is a great cricketer and Ashish Nehra knows how to get the best out of the England star.
“When the dressing room environment is like this, players perform without feeling unnecessary pressure. For such big players, as a coach they should be entrusted with some responsibility, and then you can get the best out of your player.”
He added, “This seems to be one of the reasons why Buttler is very happy in the Gujarat Titans lineup, and once he returns, he will also be able to score some runs for the franchise.”
Ashish Nehra’s positive dressing room atmosphere boosts players’ confidence in GT camp
Gujarat Titans coach Ashish Nehra has been one of the greatest IPL coaches, having led the franchise to three playoffs, two finals and one title in just 4 seasons since his debut in 2022. Pathan pointed to the positive atmosphere in the dressing room which motivates the cricketers in the GT camp.
“When I asked Ashish Nehra during the T20 World Cup, what would be his plans for the upcoming IPL season if Jos Buttler continues his poor form,” former PBKS all-rounder Irfan Pathan asked.
“He responded to me in his usual calm demeanor and said, ‘I have asked Jos Buttler to join us on March 28 or 29, because our first game is scheduled against Punjab Kings, possibly on March 31. Till then, you can rest and spend time with your family’,” Irfan Pathan revealed.
After the T20 World Cup, Ashish Nehra told Jos Buttler that their match is against PBKS on March 31, so he can rest at home and join the team by March 28 or 29.
– That’s why the atmosphere in GT’s dressing room is so good. pic.twitter.com/2HvSXBi08Q
– Ahmed says (@AhmedGT_) 31 March 2026
Shubman Gill has a lot to prove in IPL 2026
When Hardik Pandya left for Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Titans announced Shubman Gill as their captain in 2024. Gujarat Titans have reached the playoffs once under Gill’s captaincy and are yet to win the competition under his leadership.
The Indian youngster has a lot to prove, especially in the shortest format of the game, as he was ruled out of the competition ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The Indian youngster will not only have to convince everyone with his batting form but will also have to prove himself as a promising captain for the future.
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