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Every three years, the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises have to make the hard decisions to let go off several players reluctantly ahead of the mega auction. While some franchises are in favour of mega auction, others aren't. Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson comes in the latter category as he is still not over 'elder brother' Jos Buttler's departure from the franchise. RR could not retain Buttler and did not have Right to Match (RTM) card available. As a result, Buttler was roped in by Gujarat Titans (GT) for Rs 15.75 crore. Having retained six players, RR could not spend a hefty amount to acquire Buttler's services. With 10 days to go in IPL 2025, Samson opened up about his bond with the former England captain.
"IPL gives you the opportunity to lead a team and play at the highest level, but it also allows you to build close friendships. Jos Buttler is one of my closest friends. We played together for seven years, forming a long batting partnership. We knew each other so well and always kept in touch. He was like an elder brother to me. When I became captain, he was my vice-captain and played a huge role in helping me lead the team. Letting him go has been one of the most challenging things for me," Samson said told JioHotstar's SuperStar series.
"Even during the England series, I told him over dinner that I was still not over it. If I could change one thing in the IPL, I would change the rule of releasing players. While it has its positives, on a personal level, you lose connections and relationships built over years. It has been hard for me, the entire franchise, the owners, the coaches, and everyone associated with RR. Jos was family to us."
Samson will meet Buttler again when GT take on RR at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on April 9.
Buttler's batting record for Rajasthan Royals
Buttler played for seven seasons for RR. He ended his RR career as their highest run-scorer as an overseas player. He is third on the list overall with 3,055 runs from 82 games at an average of 41.84, featuring seven centuries and 18 fifties.
Buttler also holds the record for most runs by a RR batter in an IPL edition. In the 2022 edition, he scored 863 runs from 17 innings averaging over 57, including four centuries and as many fifties.
