Image: CPLT20.com
Veteran West Indian opener Chris Gayle has decided against playing in season seven of the Caribbean Premier League, citing personal reasons. The 40-year-old batsman has played for the Jamaica Tallawahs since the inception of the CPL, and had been traded in by the Saint Lucia Zouks ahead of the 2020 season.
The Universe Boss however will not be part of the Zouks squad due to personal reasons, and has already informed the club about his decision. It is understood that Gayle wanted a break from cricket to spend time with his family. Due to the lockdown, the seasoned cricketer has not been able to meet his family and young daughter who are in St. Kitts while he has been in Jamaica. Therefore, Gayle wished to take the time to August to reconnect with his family.
"We understand that Chris has decided to not take part in CPL personal reasons. We wish Chris all the best for the rest of 2020 and hope to see him back at CPL in 2021." said a spokesperson from the CPL regarding Gayle’s decision to pull out of the competition.
Chris Gayle scored 243 runs in last season’s Caribbean Premier League, which included a century against the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots. However, Gayle’s former team Jamaica Tallawahs failed to qualify beyond the group stages in 2019, finishing in bottom place.
St. Lucia Zouks is yet to name a replacement for Chris Gayle in the marquee player category.
