Don’t worry, Ash, I’m inside the crease: Jos Buttler.

Jos Buttler, England’s wicketkeeper-batsman, welcomed R Ashwin into the Rajasthan Royals squad for the forthcoming IPL 2022, joking that the experienced Indian off-spinner need not be concerned because he will stay within the crease.

While Buttler was retained by the Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of the major auction, Ashwin has purchased for INR 5 crore by the Royals. Notably, during an IPL 2019 match between Rajasthan and Kings XI Punjab, Ashwin dismissed Buttler by mankading him at the non-end, striker’s sparking a massive ‘spirit of cricket’ controversy.

Buttler stated in a video shared on Twitter by the Rajasthan Royals: “Hello, this is Jos. I’m inside the crease, and I can’t wait to see you wear pink for the Royals. I’m excited to share the dressing room with you.” In the 2019 IPL, Ashwin and Buttler were embroiled in a dispute when the former, then-leading Punjab Kings, removed Buttler with a ‘Mankad’. Although this way of dismissal is fully legal, many people believe it violates the spirit of the game.

In a video posted by the Royals on their Twitter account, Ashwin discussed sharing the changing room with Buttler.

“Hello, everyone.” I was selected by the Rajasthan Royals earlier today. I’m overjoyed that they selected me. They worked hard to get me in the last auction in 2018, but it eventually came through. I get along well with all of them. I had a great relationship with Sanju as well, so I’m looking forward to giving my all for the brand and perhaps doing some exceptional things over the next three years.”