'He was like an elder brother' - Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson on Jos Buttler

Popular Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Sanju Samson recently opened up about his close bond with his former teammate, Jos Buttler. He also shed light on the emotional difficulties of parting ways with the English star.

Buttler, who had been a key part of the Royals set-up since 2018, was released ahead of the auction in IPL 2024. Samson, who shared a long-standing partnership with Buttler at the franchise, admitted that the decision was difficult for him and the entire RR family. 

"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," Samson told JioHotstar.

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Over the years, the duo formed a formidable opening partnership for RR, with Buttler playing a crucial role in the team's success, including winning the Orange Cap in IPL 2022. When Samson took over the captaincy, Buttler played a key role as his deputy, providing invaluable support. Furthermore, Sanju Samson also expressed his desire to change the IPL rule that forces teams to release players due to retention constraints.

"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. 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," the Kerala-based player further continued.

Jos was family to us: Samson

Besides, the Rajasthan skipper also emphasized the impact Jos Buttler had on the team and how he was more like a family member for the whole franchise. Hence it was hard for the owners along with the coaches and support staff to let him go away as he was not retained during the IPL mega auctions.

"It has been hard for me, the entire franchise, the owners, the coaches, and everyone associated with RR. Jos was family to us," Samson concluded.