After failing to score big in recent times, the self-proclaimed Universe Boss, Chris Gayle seems to have regained his form in the third T20I against Australia and mustered a match-winning half-century in St. Lucia. On a track where Aussie batsmen were finding it difficult to score runs at a brisk pace, Gayle smashed sixes at will. With the help of four boundaries and seven monstrous hists, Chris Gayle played a fiery knock of 67 off mere 38 deliveries as West Indies chased down 142 in mere 14.5 overs, winning the contest by six wickets.
With this triumph, the Windies have taken a unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Chris Gayle was happy to to take his team over the line with a comprehensive margin and now he has also silenced his critics. Ahead of the 3rd T20I, the 41-year-old was immensely criticized for losing his edge However, Gayle showed that there is still a ot of cricket left in him.
Interestingly, Chris Gayle managed to churn out another incredible performance during the post-match interview. The self-proclaimed Universe Boss referred to himself in the third person and took a dig at his critcs. He said, “It’s been a great journey. I’m so happy and pleased to get a series win. Congrats to the stand-in captain for achieving this against a great team. From a person point of view, we all know that I was struggling. So it was pleasing to get runs. I want to dedicate these runs to my teammates. Especially Kieron Pollard and Dwayne Bravo. Sometimes, no matter how great you are, you need to get some talking to.”
He further elaborated, “My main focus is the World Cup. Don‘t mind the numbers, Chris Gayle not getting the runs, soon to be 42, you guys should be happy to see Chris Gayle on the field still. Hopefully Chris will last as long as possible. Commentators, don‘t put no stats about Chris Gayle not scoring a half-century. Just respect the ‘Universe Boss’ playing some cricket and having some fun. Enjoy the moment with Chris Gayle with a strong West Indies team.”
Recent statements of Chris Gayle states that he has no plans of slowing down any time soon which makes it interesting to see how far he goes. Gayle is certain to play the T20 World Cup later this year in UAE and would be determined to help the Caribbean side defend the title.
Meanwhile, the fourth and penultimate T20I is scheduled to be taking place on July 14 (Wednesday) in St Lucia. With West Indies bagging the series 3-0, the remaining fixtures will have no impact on deciding the winner of the series. However, the Men in Maroon would still like to continue their winning run. On the other hand, the Aussies have nothing but pride to play for.
