GAYLE’S GOODBYE
CWI, JCA make arrangements for ‘Universe Boss’ Sabina Park testimonial
‘He has been a stalwart and a legend for the game and deservedly should get some recognition.’
IF EVERYTHING goes according to plan, Jamaica and West Indies batsman Chris Gayle could get his wish of playing his final international match on home soil in the new year.
Cricket West Indies (CWI) is said to be advanced in its plans to host Ireland for three One-Day Internationals in the Caribbean with a one-off T20 in late January.
CWI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Johnny Grave says that the one-off T20 match could see the ‘Universe Boss’ playing his final game in maroon colours at Sabina Park to signal an end to an illustrious international career for arguably the greatest T20 batsman of all time.
Speaking on the Mason and Guest radio show in Barbados, Grave says CWI is in talks with the Government regarding the hosting of the series.
“We know that in terms of international tournaments, the [T20 World Cup] was the last one,” he said. “Collectively, we feel it is appropriate for him to have one last game at home, to say farewell; and certainly, the Ireland series would represent that opportunity.
“Whether or not it happens, I do not know, but it would be appropriate, as far as I can see it, to treat our players and allow them to bow out, especially players like Chris, who had unbelievable careers and won trophies for the West Indies.”
After a poor showing at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup recently, Gayle said that he was not retiring from the international game just yet, and if possible, he would like to play one more game in front of his home fans.
Jamaica Cricket Association CEO Courtney Francis said that the game in Jamaica is a possibility, with the entity already applying to the Government for permission to host.
At the time of The Gleaner’s phone call with Francis, he, government officials, and law enforcement were on a tour of the George Headley Stand at Sabina Park doing a walk-through to finalise plans for the series.
Francis says it would be an honour to host the West Indies and Gayle.
“We at the JCA are happy for him,” Francis said. “He has been a stalwart and a legend for the game and deservedly should get some recognition.”