West Indian big-hitter Chris Gayle was quiet in his first two matches for Barisal Bulls in the third edition of the Bangladesh Premier League Twenty20. Many Bangladesh fans were wondering how long it would take for the giant Jamaican to truly announce his grand arrival.
They did not have to wait long however as Gayle hammered a blistering 47-ball 92 yesterday to propel the Bulls to a convincing eight-wicket win over Chittagong Vikings at Mirpur’s Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.
In pursuit of the Vikings’ 135/7, the Bulls romped home in just 15 overs with Gayle remaining unbeaten alongside captain Mahmudullah, who made 19 off 25 balls. The marauding Gayle blasted nine huge sixes to go with his half a dozen boundaries as the Bulls took their points tally to 12 from nine outings.
“It’s good to be among runs, guys have been playing good cricket. I didn’t score in last two games and it was crucial. It was better wicket [yesterday], ball was coming on to the bat, not much spin though, we should be prepared for the next games,” said Gayle in the post-match press conference.
Barisal skipper Mahmudullah also expressed his delight with the comprehensive win. “Bowlers did very well, the Vikings started well and our bowlers bowled very well too. It was great pleasure batting with Gayle. I think it’s good to be on winning way, Chris batted very well and showed his class,” said Mahmudullah.
The Vikings on the other hand ended their disappointing campaign at the bottom with just four points from their full quota of 10 matches and their Sri Lanka.
