Being free of captaincy has given me lot of mental space

England and Gujarat Titans batter Jos Buttler discusses his role just as a player and not as a skipper

- Press Trust of India

MUMBAI: Feeling much "lighter" since stepping down as England captain after a challenging period, Jos Buttler is embracing a "relaxed" mindset and making the most of his newfound mental clarity in the Indian Premier League.

The 34-year-old had entered into the ongoing IPL season under scrutiny, both for his form and his transition to new team after England's Champions Trophy campaign ended in the group stage under his leadership.

But Buttler has been at the forefront of Gujarat Titans' batting attack with two fifties in three matches including a match-winning 73 not out. With 166 runs, he currently features among the top run-getters in the competition.

"I certainly feel a lot lighter. Obviously, being a captain, when you're not getting the results can weigh heavy on you and you spend a lot of time and energy thinking about it and trying to make it right," Buttler said on Friday.

"Being free of that certainly has given me a lot more space in my own mind and I feel a lot more relaxed and I can just focus on my own game."

Having primarily batted as an opener in T20 cricket, Buttler has recently adapted to the No.3 role for both England and the Titans.