Getting better with WICB, says Chris Gayle

Bengaluru: Chris Gayle, arguably, is cricket’s first nomad. A fractured relationship with the West Indies Cricket Board has seen the flamboyant Jamaican ply his trade in several countries.

The board, at loggerheads with several players over money matters, chose to recall Gayle for the one-off T20 game against India in the Caribbean last week.

Ignored for the five-match ODI series as have been several other stars, Gayle turned out in the Windies’ colours after more than a year.

In the city for a promotional event, having entered into a partnership with IONA Entertainment to bring one-stop entertainment to Indian sports fans, Gayle was his usual forthright self.

“It was good to be back. I didn’t realise at the time how long I was out. 12 months? A year? It was a great experience, to be playing in my hometown was special,” said Gayle on Thursday.

“The fans were happy to see me back on the field representing West Indies. Hopefully, things can get better. Hopefully I can play a few more games. Things are beginning to open up a little more now, between players and the board. It’s looking good, we’ve to try and build from this to get the best players out on the field.” Though he didn’t get into details, Gayle was hopeful of a turnaround with the board.

“I can’t get into specific details, just from the little I’ve experienced since coming back. There’s still more discussion to be done.”

On the England tour beginning next month, Gayle was non-committal about the chances of playing in the Test series.

“That’s what is actually in discussion. It’s for them to make the announcement, and make it formal so that we know what is what. We’ll wait and see what happens. Once we are guided with the rules, if it is going to change fully, we’ll know how to take things further.”