West Indies superstar Chris Gayle, who has been attending matches of the India Cements TN Premier League, spoke exclusively to the tournament’s website during his two-day trip to Chennai. Gayle spoke on a multitude of topics and also gave an insight from a spectator’s perspective.
On the experience at the India Cements TN Premier League... It was a great experience and from what I gather it’s a great tournament as well. It has the potential to be even bigger. The fact that only Tamil Nadu players can play is something which is according to the rules and regulations.
But it’s a great tournament and to be able to showcase it on TV is even better for the younger players. Also, this is a wonderful opportunity for a particular player to gain selection into the IPL as well. It’s really good and I hope that it gets bigger and better.
On his advice to youngsters...I think the younger players should make most of the opportunity of playing with senior players in the tournament. As for the ones who cannot; they need self-belief. Of course, they will have a chance to play for India or the state team if they work hard. It must be noted that despite hard work a lot of talent in India never gets recognised.
At times even the talented kids don’t get the opportunity and exposure to be seen in the public eye.
Though it is tough, for the guys who get the opportunity they should try and grab it with both hands. Given the fact that India has a huge population, if you don’t take the opportunity someone else will come and take your spot. But then what is to be will always be! It’s going to take a lot of hard-work and dedication and the players have to make a lot of sacrifices.
The younger guys need to know that whenever it seems tough, don’t give up, keep pushing on, and make sure that you enjoy the game for it is important to enjoy the sport and have fun. Respect the game and the game will respect you!
On his experience as a spectator...(Laughs) It wasn’t a bad feeling! To be honest it was nice to actually rub shoulders with the fans and be a spectator. I was a spectator before I started playing the game and I’m sure when I walk away I’ll still be one. It was fantastic to sit in the stands and watch a live game. This was just one of those many good experiences in India.
On the new venues in smaller towns and districts...It’s good because even in the Caribbean when T20s started, many players got recognised and went on to play Tests. The tournament helped them to express themselves given the fact that they are from a small island.
Selectors took note of their performances and it was a perfect opportunity for them to excel. Even the India Cements TN Premier League is fantastic and is a similar concept. The fact that some of the player’s play brilliant shots will also draw interest from other franchises in India as well (IPL).
It is a fantastic platform for them to showcase their talent. You also get to see a lot of different players in action week in and week out.
On the impact of having world-class coaches from abroad in this league...It’s terrific to have international players coaching in this tournament which helps the younger players to gain experience and knowledge. Even players from other franchises can talk to the senior pros and get feedback on moving to the next level.
The fact that most of these international coaches won’t be around till next year gives the younger players impetus to learn as much as they can in this tournament. The likes of Brett Lee and Lance Klusener can help these guys move up the next level.
On his two-day trip to Chennai...It’s been good as the feedback and the people have been fantastic. Even the atmosphere is energetic. I am thankful to showcase whatever I could in the last two days and it was a great experience.
Also, it was heartening to see people wanting to shake my hand or get an autograph. The people who did get a chance were going really crazy and even took selfies with me! It is a sign that I am welcome in India and Chennai, which is a good sign.
The people here have a lot of passion for the sport and its athletes, which makes my association with the tournament even more memorable.
On Chennai’s love for MS Dhoni...MS (Dhoni) is king in both Chennai as well as India! It won’t be long before he comes back to action (with CSK in the IPL). We have been missing him since the last two years.
On your interaction with the girls at the MOP Vaishnav College...I was overwhelmed as the response from the ladies was really fantastic! They were so loud that at one point I expected my ear drum to burst! Also, it is fantastic to go to schools where ladies excel in many sports and not just cricket. I do hope that they continue the good work.
Though it was only a short visit still it was a great opportunity to interact and share precious moments. I wish them all the best and hope that they continue doing their good work. They must prove that they are a great bunch and must show the strength of a woman.
On fans wanting to dance with you...I think I need to start my own dancing show as most people don’t talk about my cricket but only about my dancing skills! When I get the chance I try and show a few moves. Maybe I can learn a few moves from them as well!
Once I learn the moves I can implement it on the field as well and then it could be more fun.
On enjoying fatherhood...It’s been good as I’ve been mostly on the road busy playing. As my mother does most of the work, so I’ll get my turn once I go back home and enjoy some family time!
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