I always keep believing, that was key, says Jos Buttler after match-winning knock

NEW DELHI: Jos Buttler , the standout performer for Rajasthan Royals on Tuesday, emphasised that he maintained unwavering self-belief throughout his match-winning century and drew inspiration from the likes of Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Virat Kohli on how to navigate challenging situations.

Despite missing RR's previous game due to injury, Buttler returned to the field in spectacular fashion, spearheading his team to victory in the IPL 's most monumental chase against Kolkata Knight Riders .

His unbeaten knock of 107 runs off 60 deliveries epitomised resilience and determination.

Buttler's unwavering resolve was evident even as he battled physical discomfort towards the end of the innings, yet he refused to relent. Drawing from the experiences of cricketing stalwarts like Dhoni and Kohli, Buttler showcased the mental fortitude required to overcome adversity and achieve remarkable feats on the cricket field.

"Keep believing, that was the real key today. I was struggling a bit for rhythm. At times you feel frustrated or you are questioning yourself. I tell myself it's okay, keep going, you'll get your rhythm back and try to stay calm.

"There's been plenty of times throughout the IPL, you've seen crazy things happen. Guys like Dhoni and Kohli, the way they stay till the end and keep believing and I tried to do the same," Buttler said at the post-match presentation.

The Englishman also credited RR's Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara for enhancing his self belief.

"That's something Sanagakkara has told me a lot - there's always a breaking point," he said.

"The worst thing you can do is to not fight and give your wicket away. He (Sangakkara) just tells me to stay there and at some point, the momentum will change. That's been a big part of my play over the last few years."

He termed Tuesday's knock as his best IPL innings.

"I would think so (best IPL innings). Very satisfying."

RR skipper Sanju Samson lauded Buttler as a truly special player, acknowledging the transformative impact Buttler's performance can have on the team's fortunes. Samson emphasised that when Buttler is in full flow, no target seems insurmountable.

"Very happy with the win. We were wondering like the wickets we lost. Rovman (Powell) hit a couple of sixes and that's when we felt like we were in the game. Some luck also, they also played really well. The quality of spin they had, they bowled really well. This ground suited them.

"Jos (Buttler) did what he does for us in the last 6-7 years, so happy for him. It (Buttler's knock) should go right on top. Being an opener, if he gets in, no runs are unchaseable. He does something special," he said.

(With PTI inputs)