Gayle saves biggest bash for last
Big-hitting West Indian Chris Gayle has come out swinging in a long social media rant following the end of a controversial stint in the Big Bash League.
Chris Gayle equals the fastest half century in T20 history against the Adelaide Strikers on Monday. Photo: Mal Fairclough, AAP.
Gayle’s season with the Melbourne Renegades was embroiled in controversy surrounding his sideline interview with television reporter Mel McLaughlin.
The 36-year-old was fined $10,000 by the Renegades for his flirtatious interview with McLaughlin, which he described as a “simple joke” but Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland deemed “completely out of line”.
During a January 4 match, Gayle asked McLaughlin if she wanted to go out for a drink before adding “don’t blush baby”.
On Tuesday, the powerful Jamaican fired a parting shot in an Instagram post at his critics and those who failed to publicly defend him.
“I think a lot of past and present cricketers who smile in front my face could’ve have there (sic) say In the public when my so call issue was going on, but y’all don’t have the BALLs to stand firm when it matters,” the post read.
“But yet when u see me you’re like, Chris that’s BS against you, it was blown out of proportion.
“Don’t tell me, tell the media and public!
“The past cricketer who say I make myself look like a chop, the other who claim I was no good to the youngsters while playing for the thunder, the next one who said he expect that sort of behavior from Chris – Y’all can kiss my ‘Black Rass’.”
Former England Test player and BBL commentator Andrew Flintoff said Gayle had made himself “look like a bit of a chop” in a tweet following the interview with McLaughlin.
Former Australian Test opener Chris Rogers said Gayle had set a bad example for the Sydney Thunder’s young players when the pair both played with the franchise, while allrounder Shane Watson said he expected the behaviour.
The West Indian ended his stint with the Renegades on Monday night when he equalled the world record for the fastest Twenty20 half-century, reaching the milestone from just 12 balls against the Adelaide Strikers.
In a video and audio media release issued by the Renegades on Tuesday, Gayle said he wanted to return to play again in the BBL.
“Definitely – I have always got a soft spot for Australia. And the fans here have been very supportive. They have been really, really tremendous,” he said.
-AAP
