PERTH – Chris Gayle plans to continue playing for West Indies in the immediate future, instead of chasing big bucks in lucrative Twenty20 leagues around the world.
The West Indies opener has been reacting to his shocking snub at the lucrative Indian Premier League players’ auction conducted over the last weekend.
Gayle, who also bowls off-spin, was probably the most valuable current star to miss out on a berth in the IPL, after he played for the Kolkata Knight Riders for the first three seasons of the tournament.
“I’m a bit surprised, but I think the franchises look at it that they want their best player to be available for the full IPL,” said Gayle in a radio interview.
“It is unfortunate that the IPL clashes with the international duties. [West Indies] have the Pakistan series at the same time.”
He added: “It’s a lot of money, and a lot of guys did pick up a lot of money, which is good for the game to build from there.”
But the left-handed opener indicated he had no intention of cutting back on the amount cricket he is playing.
“There’s a lot of cricket coming up to be honest,” he said.
“When you look at it, I’ve got the Big Bash now, then Sri Lanka, and the World Cup, then the Pakistan and Indian series at home.
It’s a lot of cricket for me, but it’s up to me to try and monitor it as much as possible.
“I’m accustomed to it, and I’ve been doing it for quite some time now, so I know what is required. It’s nothing to really worry about if I look after myself.”
Gayle reiterated he still saw a role for him with West Indies, so fans and officials should not be too concerned.
“It is not about calling it quits because you never know what can happen in the future,” he said.
“You still have to give back to the international scene. The day after his IPL snub, Gayle advertised his batting power, when he bashed 32 from one over in 61 to help Western Australia to victory over New South Wales in the Twenty20 Big Bash.
He and fellow West Indian Kieron Pollard will feature in a Big Bash match on Thursday between WA and South Australia at the WACA here.
Gayle, who had his first stint with WA cut short by injury last year, said he was enjoying the experience, and looking forward to the clash.
“To come here and represent the Warriors is a tremendous thing,” he said.
“The atmosphere and hospitality have been great, and I am definitely looking to be back here again as long as I am free and available.”
He concluded: “The pressure is on though, so hopefully I can actually be consistent, and get the Warriors another win.” (CMC)
