Image courtesy of: Zimbio
“I have learnt a new style and you will see it on television in a couple of days time”
Explosive West Indies opener Chris Gayle has made a rather bold statement prior to the start of the group stages of the World Twenty20, stating that “I am a batsman capable of scoring a century in any condition and on any wicket in the world”.
Gayle noted that he is looking to score as many centuries as he can in the World Twenty20 as he determined to help the West Indies retain their title.
“I am a batsman capable of scoring a century in any condition and on any wicket in the world,” he said. “I just want to give the team that kind of a start. It will be nice to get another hundred.
“However it also depends on the conditions as well and how the wicket is playing.”
Gayle also admitted that he knows what’s at stake every time he comes out to bat.
“It creates a lot of pressure as expectations are rising,” he said. “When you actually set a trend, then people expect you to come good at all times. You have fans worldwide who want me to do well. That’s what they pay for and want to see. But it’s not going to happen all the time but when I do get a chance I try to entertain people as much as possible.”
Gayle also stated that the West Indies are ready and eager to become the first team to win two successive World Twenty20 tournaments.
“We are here to retain the title and that’s not going to be easy but we are ready for it and we are ready for the challenges,” he said. “Our first priority is to make it to the last four, it’s a tough group. Everybody is looking to win the tournament.”
Gayle added that he doesn’t believe any team are the favourites to win the competition.
“Honestly, if you look at the teams almost everybody has a chance on paper,” he said. “It’s difficult to pinpoint. It’s like six teams can win it. It’s not like there are two teams you can single out. It’s all about what’s going to happen on a particular day. Who plays better cricket on a particular day. Every team’s Even-Stevens. This game can change quickly, it’s a tricky game.”
The 34-year-old also conceded that the West Indies will sorely miss all-rounder Kieron Pollard, who is currently recovering from a knee injury.
“We will definitely miss Kieron Pollard,” Gayle said. “He has done wonders for us. It’s not just with his batting but his bowling as well. It is a big loss. But we are still confident and backing each other to get the job done. We have 12 guys actually here who have played in the last world cup so that’s a big plus for us.”
The flamboyant Jamaican also joked around with the press when asked about his spin bowling.
“I am the best spinner on the world,” he said with a huge grin on his face. “I know you guys have not seen me for sometime but I have a secret weapon you know!
“I can be called upon at a tricky situation to come and break a partnership. I have a secret weapon you know.”
Gayle was renowned for his Gangnam Style celebrations in the 2012 World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka, but he revealed that he has been working on a new celebration.
“I have learnt a new style and you will see it on television in a couple of days time,” he said.