WIPA hails Gayle as 'true champion'

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC):

Players union WIPA has lauded West Indies opener Chris Gayle as a "true champion" following the left-hander's superb, unbeaten century in the Indian Premier League on Friday.

Gayle smashed 102 in his first match for Royal Challengers Bangalore as they crushed Kolkata Knight Riders by nine wickets at Eden Gardens.

The remarkable innings came on the heels of Gayle's controversial decision to make himself unavailable for the West Indies ongoing home series against Pakistan.

"Gayle overcame jetlag and disappointment to show his quality and fighting spirit," WIPA's Chief Executive Dinanath Ramnarine said.

"This is the mark of a true champion and world-class player. He had done this in scoring his recent 333 (against Sri Lanka) and has done it again.

"I spoke to him earlier and he is in good spirits and looking forward to making his mark on this year's IPL."

Gayle, who struck 10 fours and seven sixes, was criticised by the West Indies Cricket Board for his decision to take up the IPL contract.

In response, the 31-year-old Jamaican slammed the board, contending his decision had been influenced by their move to overlook him for a training camp ahead of the Pakistan series and the subsequent first two one-day internationals.