(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] England white-ball captain Jos Buttler, ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, clarified that none of his teammates are considering international retirement at the moment.
Buttler stated that the upcoming World Cup is the only thing on which everyone has their eyes and minds settled.
Defending champions England will kickstart the tournament by playing runner-up New Zealand in the World Cup opener on 5th October in Ahmedabad. Buttler has been named the captain of the England side. He asserted that all 15 players in the squad are looking forward to winning the tournament rather than contemplating retirement.
“I haven’t heard anything about international retirement from anyone in our group. I don’t think anyone’s thinking that at the moment because they’re focused on the team and playing well at the start of an exciting campaign. But there might be individuals after this World Cup who want to make this kind of decision,” said Buttler while talking with the Daily Mail.
Buttler continued, adding that they are avoiding unnecessary pressure, as everyone looks motivated and determined. He backed his team, saying, “Really strong group of players.”
“We don’t need to add pressure by saying this is the last dance or anything like that. We’re looking forward to the World Cup and we’ve got a really strong group of players. Any time you get to represent your country at a World Cup is very exciting and needs your full attention. You don’t want anyone thinking too far past it,” he opined.
After playing New Zealand in the opening match, England will play their next three World Cup matches against Bangladesh, Afghanistan and South Africa on 10th, 15th and 21st October in Dharamsala, Delhi and Mumbai respectively.