Compatriot of Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, has lauded Chris Gayle for the way he batted against Chennai in Punjab’s last game against Dhoni’s men. Gayle smashed 63 from 33 balls to give Punjab solid start, which allowed them to post a formidable total of 197 in their 20 overs.

In response, Dhoni failed to finish the game for his team as Chennai fell short by 5 runs and Chris Gayle was awarded the man of the match. As a result, Kieron Pollard was happy to see his fellow West Indian do well and showered him with praises.

“When you talk about Chris Gayle, you talk about the guy with most T20 runs, the best record, the most sixes, the most dominant force in T20 cricket. As a fellow West Indian, it is disappointing that he didn’t fetch a buyer in the first or second round. But he eventually got a buyer. And in his first game in the tournament, it was pleasing to see do what he can do,” Pollard was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

“It seems like he has to prove himself once again. And Universe Boss does in fine style, he did it well. And as a fellow West Indian, it is pleasing to see him come out and score runs, it is pleasing for me to see (Andre) Russell, (Dwayne) Bravo and all the guys doing well. Every day, you’re happy to see these guys performing, and when it is your day, they will be happy in return for you as well,” Pollard added.

Gayle’s inclusion in Punjab’s starting XI now seems like a masterstroke. After being snubbed twice in the auctions, Gayle’s ego was bruised enough for Preity Zinta to take the gamble and she took it in the third round.

After not being picked for the first two games, the desire to prove himself must have increased tenfold – and that is when Ashwin hit the iron and made it work in his favour.