Monday, February 7, 2011

Chris Gayle will be key for West Indies


Chris Gayle heads into the World Cup with a reputation as one of the world's most fearsome strokeplayers but also as a player who needs consistent big-tournament success to match his undoubted talent.




The powerfully built Jamaican left-hander had a poor World Cup four years ago, managing just one half-century in the tournament.



At times Gayle sounded and looked a reluctant captain, although he was certainly keen to keep hold of the reins whenever alternatives were muted.


When the West Indies selectors chose Darren Sammy as the next man charged with marshalling the hoped-for revival of Caribbean cricket, it would not have been a huge surprise if Gayle had decided to turn his attention purely to lucrative opportunities in Twenty20 cricket.


One thing is sure with Gayle though he will bring fireworks to the tournament. The only question is how often.