From stretcher to legacy: Chris Gayle speaks on his new Kochi innings and more

With a bat in hand, Chris Gayle rarely smiles. His joy lies in dismantling bowlers' confidence with ruthless efficiency. Off the field, however, the 'Universe Boss' is all smiles, music, and dance. Having made an unexpected entry into Kerala cricket as the co-owner of the Kerala Cricket League (KCL) franchise Kochi Blue Tigers, the West Indian legend arrived in the capital city to cheer on his team, sparking absolute joy among local fans. In an exclusive conversation with Malayala Manorama, Gayle speaks about his connection with Kerala, his admiration for stars like Sanju Samson and Sreesanth, and his future plans.

A new innings as franchise co-owner
On transitioning from playing in the IPL to co-owning the Kochi Blue Tigers, Gayle explains that it marks a brand new chapter in his cricketing journey. "My friendship with Kochi team owner Subhash George Manuel paved the way for this association," he says. "The Blue Tigers are a fantastic franchise with a strong foundation. I want to mentor these players, share my experiences, and help build the Blue Tigers into a formidable cricketing brand. Kerala has a massive cricket fanbase and incredible raw talent. A professional platform like the KCL is exactly what these youngsters need to showcase their skills, grab IPL opportunities, and transition to international cricket."

The unforgettable stretcher exit in Kochi
Gayle vividly recalls the 2013 ODI match in Kochi where he was run out on the second ball and suffered a painful injury while diving. "I remember it only too well," he laughs. "I had to be carried off the field on a stretcher. It certainly wasn't the kind of entertainment I wanted to provide to the wonderful fans in Kerala. But that is the beauty of cricket, things don't always go according to plan. Coming back to Kerala after all these years feels special, and this time, I am looking forward to creating much happier memories with the people here."

Respecting Sreesanth and admiring Sanju Samson
Having shared the pitch with Kerala's prominent stars in both the IPL and international matches, Gayle speaks highly of S Sreesanth and Sanju Samson. "Sreesanth was an absolute powerhouse of energy, passion, and aggression on the field. He always brought an intense competitive spirit to the game. When he got into his rhythm and started swinging the ball, he could trouble the absolute best in the world. He never backed down from a challenge, and I always respected that fighting attitude. Sanju Samson, on the other hand, is one of the most naturally gifted and stylish batters in contemporary cricket. His timing is extraordinary, and he has the rare ability to hit boundaries to all corners of the ground with effortless ease. He plays without fear, making him a true role model for the younger generation. Kerala should be immensely proud of both of them."

Full circle with Basil Thampi
Interestingly, Kerala pacer Basil Thampi's maiden IPL wicket was none other than Chris Gayle himself. Today, Thampi is a key player for Gayle's franchise. "Cricket has an incredible way of bringing people together," Gayle remarks. "Getting my wicket as his first IPL scalp must have been a highly memorable moment for Basil, though perhaps not so much for me! Years later, we find ourselves in the same Kochi camp. Basil is a highly talented fast bowler. Sanju Samson also played for the Blue Tigers franchise, and it feels like we are all part of one big family now. It is amazing how cricket turns former on-field rivals into close teammates."

Respecting the greats of bowling
When asked if there was ever a bowler who struck fear in his heart, the Universe Boss stands firm. "I wouldn't say I feared any bowler. The moment a batter shows fear, the bowler has already won the battle. I always walked out to bat with the absolute conviction that I could dominate anyone. However, there is a clear difference between fear and respect. I had immense respect for some legendary bowlers. Facing the likes of Muttiah Muralitharan and Shane Warne was incredibly challenging because of their phenomenal turn and variation. Fast bowlers like Brett Lee, Shoaib Akhtar, and Dale Steyn tested us with sheer pace and aggression. Then there was Lasith Malinga, whose unique slinging action, lethal yorkers, and clever slower balls made him a constant threat. Competing against these masters pushed me to become a better batter. My strategy was always to respect their skills but trust my own ability, and never show any vulnerability."

Favourite partners in crime
Reflecting on his favourite batting partners, Gayle points to legends from both international cricket and the IPL. "For the West Indies, batting alongside Shivnarine Chanderpaul was an absolute pleasure. His immense concentration, experience, and solid style were the perfect contrast to my aggressive approach. It allowed me to play my natural game while he held the other end steady. In the IPL, playing alongside Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers at Royal Challenger Bangalore was exceptionally thrilling. Virat brought a rare intensity, passion, and hunger to win. AB was an absolute genius who could execute any shot against any bowler on earth. We understood each other's styles perfectly and shared some unforgettable partnerships that put extreme pressure on the opposition."

Idolising Brian Lara and Sir Viv Richards
Growing up, Gayle looked up to the legends of Caribbean cricket. "Brian Lara was someone I deeply admired. He could dominate the most lethal bowling attacks with supreme grace, immaculate technique, and an insatiable hunger for massive runs. When Lara was in full flow, he took the game to another dimension. As West Indians, we also naturally worshipped legends like Sir Vivian Richards. Sir Viv was the ultimate symbol of confidence, power, and fearlessness. He decimated bowlers without even wearing a helmet! His sheer presence on the field was enough to intimidate opponents. While I drew immense inspiration from them, I always strived to bring my own unique identity and flair to the game."

Challenging the records of the Universe Boss
With numerous T20 and international records to his name, does Gayle see anyone breaking them? "There is a highly talented bunch of young batters playing fearless cricket today. Players are stronger, more innovative, and possess the confidence to attack from the very first delivery. With so much T20 cricket being played across the globe, the opportunities to rewrite records are immense. However, shattering massive records requires more than just raw talent—it demands supreme consistency, peak fitness, and unwavering self-belief. I would love to see the next generation challenge my milestones. That is how the game evolves. But until someone actually does it, the Universe Boss will comfortably enjoy the view from the top!"

Why coaching is on the backburner
Despite his vast pool of knowledge, Gayle hasn't jumped into full-time coaching. "Coaching is a massive responsibility that demands a full-time commitment. Right now, I am enjoying my roles as a mentor, team owner, and running my academy. I will never completely rule out coaching, but it has to be the right opportunity, team, and environment. I love interacting with players and helping them navigate the mental aspects of the game. Currently, I also cherish the freedom to pursue my other passions, including business and music."

An academy in Kerala and a love for Indian beats
Gayle is keen to expand his academy's footprint. "India holds a very special place in my heart, and Kerala has immense untapped potential. We are actively exploring the possibility of bringing the Chris Gayle Academy's training methods and philosophy here in partnership with the Kochi Blue Tigers. The goal isn't just to teach kids how to hit sixes, but to instil confidence, discipline, physical fitness, technical soundness, and a professional understanding of the sport."
Apart from cricket, Gayle has also made a name for himself as a rap artist. "Music is my biggest passion outside of cricket; it lets me express a completely different side of my personality. I love writing, recording, performing, and collaborating with different artists. I regularly listen to Indian music, which has an incredible energy, rhythm, and festive vibe. Both music and cricket have a beautiful unifying quality that transcends borders, languages, and cultures. I would absolutely love to collaborate with more Indian artists in the future."

Cherishing the beauty of God's Own Country
Recalling his 2018 family holiday to Kollam, Gayle speaks with genuine affection for the state. "We had an absolutely wonderful time back then. The warm hospitality, the relaxing houseboat cruise, and the delicious local fish delicacies are memories we still cherish. Kerala has stunning natural beauty and a unique culture; it truly deserves the title of 'God's Own Country'. There is a serene calmness here, yet when it comes to cricket, the energy and passion of the fans in the stadium is absolutely electric."