"The IPL couldn't have gone better for me" - Jos Buttler credits his tournament success after his carnage against the Netherlands

England keeper-batter Jos Buttler gave IPL 2022 credit for his form following an unbeaten 162 against the Netherlands in the first ODI on Friday, June 17. The right-handed batter also admitted to enjoying his role in one-day cricket and hailed England's flexibility for their success.

Buttler went hammer and tongs on the Dutch bowlers. He smashed 14 sixes in a brutal 70-ball 162 as England amassed a record-breaking 498-4 in 50 overs. He deservedly earned the 'Player of the Match' award as England registered a 232-run victory and took a 1-0 lead in the three-game series.

Speaking after the game, the gloveman acknowledged that success in IPL 2022 gave him plenty of confidence and was motivated to do well. The 31-year-old stated that he feels relieved to get rid of bio-bubbles and see things returning to normal. He said, as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo:

"The IPL couldn't have gone better for me. I absolutely loved it, and that gives you a lot of confidence. Coming here I was feeling in good touch: I turned up with a lot of motivation and freshness which I think is really key."

He added:

"I've said many times, this is the most fun environment I've ever played in, so it's great to be back and it's been great to be on a normal tour and being able not to worry about bubbles and that kind of thing."

Buttler, who batted at No. 4 in the game, shared massive and brisk partnerships with Dawid Malan and Liam Livingstone. He added 184 with Malan in 90 deliveries, followed by an unbeaten 91 off 32 with Livingstone.

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"I enjoy that middle-order role in one-day cricket" - Jos Buttler

Jos Buttler was the player of the match. (Image Credits: Twitter)

The right-handed batter conceded that flexibility is one of England's greatest strengths and believes it was down to another blistering start he got promoted. He added:

"Over the years, when we've got off to good starts, I've sometimes been pushed up to No. 4 and today we got off to a fantastic start with Salt and Malan. We're pretty flexible as a group and if that's what they want to do on the day. I enjoy that middle-order role in one-day cricket so I'm very happy with the role I've got."

The second ODI will get underway on June 19 in Amstelveen.