Chris Gayle issues warning: I can hit a century in any conditions

Chris Gayle has said that he can hit century in any condition

West Indies’ explosive opener Chris Gayle has warned his opponents, saying that he can score a century in any conditions, ahead of the World Twenty20. However, the batsman soon contradicted his own statement, adding that conditions do play a role in the performance of batsman.

“I am batsman, capable of scoring a century on any conditions and on any wicket in the world. I just want to give the team that kind of a start. It will be nice to get another hundred,” NDTV reported Gayle as saying.

“However it also depends on the conditions as well and how the wicket is playing,” he said as the West Indies prepare for their opening warm-up game against England in the World Twenty20 on Tuesday.

When quizzed about the tremendous pressure that he is under, to perform every time, the Jamaican accepted that it was a challenge to live up to the expectations.

“It creates a lot of pressure as expectations are rising. 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,” he said.

He also feels that being the defending champions also adds to the pressure, but adds that the team is ready for the challenge.

“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. Our first priority is to make it to the last four, it’s a tough group. Everybody is looking to win the tournament,” Gayle said.

The 34-year-old refrained from declaring any favourites.

“Honestly, if you look at the teams almost everybody has a chance on paper. 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.”

Gayle also acknowledged that the absence of Kieron Pollard will hurt the team, but feels that retaining 12 players from the 2012 squad will be a huge advantage for them.

“We will definitely miss Kieron Pollard. 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,” Gayle said according to a PTI report.

He also adds about his improvisation, “It’s still bat hitting the ball. I mean players love to try out something all the time. As an individual player, you want to constantly improve. The batsman tries to manufacture a shot. The bowler tries to find a new variation.”

The Jamaican further added that the experience of playing in T20 leagues across the globe, and the interaction with top players from other countries will also benefit him.

“It does help a lot of players. I have played in all the leagues and I am really well experienced in the format. You have a lot of inputs to share with each and everybody in the team. But you still keep learning everyday you go out there and the conditions keep changing. I am not just saying the outdoor conditions here but things can actually change,” he said.

When quizzed about a certain incident, which took place a couple of years back, when Richie Richardson had said that Chris Gayle could have walked into Clive Lloyd’s ODI team of 1970′s and 80s. This is what he modestly answered:

“That’s would have been a privilege to be in the same team with Vivian Richards and Gordon Greenidge. They are legends of the game and I am nothing in their comparison. But my performance speaks for itself. It’s a great feeling to be compared with those legends.”

“Next Test match in Jamaica. It will be my 100th Test match.” said the Jamaican when asked about when he will be scoring his next Test century.

When asked about spin bowling, he laughs and adds, “I am the best spinner on the world. 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. (jokes) I have a secret weapon you know.?

On whether the three formats of the game can co-exist the 34-year-old said, “I think we can have a fourth format —The Masters tournament. The likes of KP (Kevin Pietersen) can play in it.”

On performing a new style, instead of Gagnam Style, “I have learnt a new style and you will see it on television in a couple of days time,” Gayle said.