Buttler to juggle wicketkeeping and captaincy amid over-rate concerns

Jos Buttler has committed to taking on the wicketkeeping duties for England at the upcoming T20 World Cup, prioritizing the strategic advantage he gains from his position behind the stumps over potential penalties for slow over-rates. 

In recent years, the ICC has intensified efforts to address slow over-rates, implementing measures such as requiring an additional fielder inside the 30-yard circle for teams that fail to meet specified timing criteria. 

The introduction of a 'stop-clock', trialed during England's series against West Indies and now a permanent fixture, further underscores this push for expediency.

The newly introduced countdown clock, prominently displayed during England's series against Pakistan and set to feature at the World Cup, mandates that fielding teams have 60 seconds between overs, with penalties escalating to five runs after two warnings. 

While England narrowly avoided sanctions during the series decider in Trinidad, the stringent enforcement of these regulations looms large.

Buttler, who has occasionally relinquished the wicketkeeping duties to Phil Salt in past series and domestic leagues, including the Hundred, has opted to retain the role for the upcoming tournament. Despite his versatility as an outfielder for Rajasthan Royals, Buttler values the strategic advantages and tactical insights afforded by the wicketkeeper position.

As Buttler assumes the wicketkeeping responsibilities, Moeen's role as vice-captain assumes greater prominence, particularly in facilitating communication with the bowlers from the outfield. Emphasizing the importance of trust within the team, Moeen highlights his role in providing a different perspective to aid bowlers in executing their plans effectively.

"Obviously it is going to be strict and these things, we can't take lightly. There is a lot of trust within the group and I think the bowlers enjoy having me at mid-off a lot of the time, talking to them, so hopefully that can work," Moeen said.

Buttler, dismissing concerns over potential penalties, underscores the benefits of his decision, citing his ability to maintain communication with the bowlers while keeping wicket. 

"I've got feet: I can run down there and talk to them. It's a real big myth sometimes… there's different ways I can slow the game down," Buttler said.

"That's why I like keeping: because I feel like I've got the best view. I can see exactly what's happening and I can make calls. I know when Morgs [Eoin Morgan] was captain, he would come to the keeper a lot and want to gather information. I've got a lot of that to hand, and then it's just about making sure I can find those times I can get to the bowler… there's a lot of benefits to being a keeper as well," he further added.