Would love to see T10 in Olympics, says Chris Gayle

Dubai - I also think T10 can be held within the United States since it’s a big platform, Gayle said

Chris Gayle can’t wait to hit those big sixes when the latest edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 League (January 28-February 6) gets underway later this month at the majestic Zayed Cricket Stadium.

The explosive opening batsman also hopes to see game’s shortest format at the Olympics.

“At the moment, I’m actually getting some well-needed rest but keeping the Abu Dhabi T10 League in mind, I’m going to start some training soon and get ready to be back in business,” said Gayle who will play for Team Abu Dhabi in the eight-team tournament.

Talking about the impact that T10 has had on cricket, and the potential it holds globally, Gayle said it would be amazing if T10 took cricket to the Olympics.

“I would absolutely love to see T10 in the Olympics. It would be something huge for the sport from a general point of view. I also think T10 can be held in the United States also since it’s a big platform,” he said.

“I think most people don’t recognise the States for cricket, but T10 is very much suitable to be held within USA, and I believe it can help generate bigger revenues as well.”

Gayle, whose runs reinvigorated the Kings XI Punjab after the team’s slow start in the 2020 Indian Premier League (IPL), is delighted to be part of another star-studded tournament in the UAE.

“First of all, I want to say that it’s good to be back. I’ve missed the past two seasons (of T10), so it’s good to be back within T10,” he said.

“There are lots of talented players who will be on show, with the likes of Kieron Pollard and the other international players. So I’m definitely looking forward to be back with Team Abu Dhabi.

“South Africa’s Chris Morris is also in my team, and I’ve played with him before, so it’s good to be back playing with him and the boys again.”

The former West Indies captain then praised the T10 organisers for the incredible success of the event.

“The organisers of the Abu Dhabi T10 League have (built) something fantastic here, so we should now look to spread it and we can get more guys involved and more countries involved within T10 for sure,” said the West Indian player.

And the Abu Dhabi wicket, according to Gayle, will produce high-scoring matches.

“The first time I played T10 (in Sharjah) it was really exciting, fun and swashbuckling. I really liked it because it was just powerhouse hitting from ball one, and all the guys enjoyed it. We had a good time as well, so like I said, being back and playing in Abu Dhabi now, it is a better wicket to bat on now, so more runs can be scored,” he said.

“I think that happened last year as well in Abu Dhabi – the scoring percentage rate is certainly higher now, so it’s good luck to the bowlers!”

sports@khaleejtimes.com