"We've four impact subs tonight in our team" | Jos Buttler's Jab during Toss sparked debate

Buttler's 'Four Impact Subs' Quip at Toss Sparks Laughter and Debate

The Quip at Toss

Jos Buttler's comment during the toss for the 5th T20I between India and England, has stirred both laughter and debate within the cricketing community. At the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, after winning the toss, Buttler decided to bowl first and made a quip about having "four impact subs" in their team. This was seen as a light-hearted yet pointed reference to the controversy surrounding the use of a concussion substitute in the previous match.

Background and Controversy

Jos Buttler not holding back.🔥
He actually announced 4 impact subs at toss itself.🤣😭 pic.twitter.com/TcHQEZsZ9D
— Khushal (@161atOptus) February 2, 2025

During the 4th T20I in Pune, India used Harshit Rana as a concussion substitute for Shivam Dube, who was hit on the helmet. Rana's performance, taking three crucial wickets, sparked discussions on whether this was a like-for-like replacement as stipulated by the concussion substitute rules. England's camp, including Buttler, expressed dissatisfaction with this move, questioning the adherence to the protocol which aims for a fair and equivalent replacement.

Also Read: Abhishek Sharma scored Hundred in 37 Balls in 5th T20I

Fans Reaction

The quip has been received with amusement by fans and commentators alike, with posts on social media reflecting laughter but also fueling further debate on the use and interpretation of concussion substitute rules in cricket. This has led to discussions on whether the current rules are clear enough and if they can be manipulated to gain an unfair advantage in matches.

Four Subs Remark

Buttler's remark about "impact subs" was taken as a humorous yet critical jab at the Indian team's strategy in the previous game. The term "impact subs" is usually associated with the IPL's Impact Player rule, which allows one substitute player per match, a concept not applicable in international cricket.