The swashbuckling West Indies opener Chris Gayle has decided to hang his boots after playing the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 in England. He announced his decision ahead of five-match One-Day International series against England.
Gayle has been one of the most prolific run-scorers for West Indies in the white-ball cricket. He has managed 9727 runs in ODI cricket, which makes him the second highest run scorer in this format after Brian Lara. Also, he has 23 ODI hundreds after his name along with one double century, which came in World Cup 2015 against Zimbabwe.
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Despite he not being a constant member in the West Indies team, it is expected that he will feature in the marquee event for Windies before bidding farewell to international cricket.
Talking about his retirement, Chris said, “You’re looking at a great man. I’m the greatest player in the world. Of course, I’m still the Universe Boss. That will never change. I’ll take that to the grave. I’m looking to draw the line after the World Cup. Or should I say cut the string? Definitely, in 50-over cricket, the World Cup is the end for me. I’ll let the youngsters have some fun and I can sit back in the party stand and watch them have some fun.”
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The veteran batsman only played 15 ODIs post World Cup 2015 in Australia and New Zealand. Few of these matches came during ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2018 in Zimbabwe.
Gayle says he is fit and reckons that he still strikes fear into opposition bowlers. He said, “I’m in good condition. I’ve lost a bit of weight and I don’t want to get too big. I’m still working on my six pack. I still have it in me and I’m still enjoying it. Being back in West Indies colors is the most important thing. I’ll be bringing some experience to play and sharing that with the youngsters and I hope to enjoy the next couple of months with the West Indies cricket team. At the end of the day, everybody should be happy and enjoy the game.”
