ICC could take an offensive approach to Jos Buttler's coarse bat message

Jos Buttler was recalled to the English red-ball squad for the Test series against Pakistan after he performed excellently well for Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League. Standing tall to the belief shown on him by the newly-appointed national selector Ed Smith, the batsman made 80 not out, grabbing the man of the match title in the second Test against Pakistan at Headingley.

However, a message that was written on the bat has landed him in trouble. As per the ICC norms of clothing and equipment rules and regulations “Players and team officials shall not be permitted to wear, display or otherwise convey messages through arm bands or other items affixed to clothing or equipment unless approved in advance by both the player or team official’s board and the ICC cricket operations department...the ICC shall have the final say on determining whether any such message is approved.”

Buttler, however, stated that this was his way of disseminating the overwhelming pressure exerted by the game and further retain his own instincts, rather than getting influenced by external forces.

“I think it's just something that reminds me of what may best mindset is - when I'm playing cricket and probably in life as well,” Buttler said. “It's just a good reminder when I'm in the middle when I'm questioning myself, and it brings me back to a good place,” he further stated.

The message displayed was not pre-approved by the ICC which has now caused trouble for Buttler. It is, however, highly dependent on the actions that will be taken by the umpires and the match referee, Jeff Crowe.