Know Your Player – Chris Gayle
Cricketing milestones, rise through the ranks, trials and tribulations and their glamorous lifestyles – we cover it all in ‘Know Your Player’, a brand-new section aimed at keeping you updated with everything you need to know! In this edition, we take a look at none other than the Universe Boss himself, Chris Gayle. Keep watching this space for a new superstar every time!
The Beginning
The Jamaican opener played his first ODI for West Indies in the year of 1999. Soon enough, the big man started displaying his power-hitting and also celebrated his maiden triple Test century in the coming years. However, Gayle became a force to reckon with once the 20-over format was introduced. He went on to become a legend of the shortest format with his exploits in the IPL and other domestic T20 leagues.
IPL exploits
It was in the 2011 IPL season that the legend of Chris Gayle came to life. RCB brought him in the squad as a replacement for Dirk Nannes and the rest is history. The left-handed opener smashed 608, 733 and 708 runs in the next three seasons to establish himself as one of the greatest T20 batsmen ever. The maverick has six IPL centuries to his name which still remains a record.
The Rise
Off the field
Gayle wholly embodies the Caribbean spirit of living. He follows the motto of ‘work hard, party harder’ to the core. The West Indian cricketer is known for his partying and colourful celebrations which have often hogged headlines. He has had his fair share of controversies, the most infamous of which occurred in the Big Bash League, Australia. Apart from that, Gayle has been jovial and a happy-go-lucky character.
