'These guys seem ready-made for international cricket' - Jos Buttler on effect of franchise cricket on emerging players

Jos Buttler (Source : Getty Image )

England's white-ball captain Jos Buttler recently opened up on the changes that are being witnessed in international cricket, with the emergence of a new breed of players who are reshaping the game.

The 34-year-old who is currently recovering from a persistent calf injury, is using this time to plan England's future under new head coach Brendon McCullum. While discussing his recovery, Buttler expressed that he hasn't set a date for his return but at the moment he is in good space. 

"I haven't set a timeline for my return but I'm feeling good. I've had a couple of setbacks along the way in my rehab, which is a shame. I just want to get it completely right. It's been a long time now since I've been at the intensity of playing some top-level cricket," he said exclusively to TOI.

Also Read: Brendon McCullum will help me so much as a captain: Jos Buttler

It's that fearless nature these youngsters have: Jos Buttler

The evolution of franchise-based T20 cricket has played a major impact on player development, according to Buttler. He has observed that the younger crop is fearless, and is ready to take the challenge of international cricket despite limited experience.

"It's that fearless nature these youngsters have. They seem very international-ready, without having had games behind them or taking the time to adapt. That's been one of the things for all countries since the franchise competitions began. Playing in these tournaments has sort of bridged the gap between domestic and international cricket," he added.

He feels that the high-pressure franchise tournaments in the current date has incorporated this mental strength within them. These events have effectively bridged the gap between domestic and international cricket, as per the English skipper.

"These (franchise events) are condensed tournaments offering a higher standard of cricket and sort of preparing younger players for what international cricket will be like, even in terms of playing in front of big crowds or the media inter actions, etc. So, these guys seem ready-made for international cricket and they aren't taking that long to adapt, which is a great sign," he concluded.

With the Somerset-born's injury persisting, young Harry Brook has been handed the captaincy for the upcoming five-match ODI series against Australia. Buttler's absence has also opened doors for others, with Liam Livingstone earning a recall to the 50-over side.