After a smashing 41 run from 15 deliveries, Jamaican cricketer Chris Gayle last night helped lead the Melbourne Renegades to victory against the Hobart Hurricanes in Australia’s Big Bash T20 league.
However, that’s not why the star is trending world-wide on Twitter today. After Gayle was dismissed from the game, he was approached by an Australian female reporter who asked about his aggressive batting style which contributed to his team’s five-wicket win over their opponents.
Gayle responded by complimenting the reporter: “I want to come and have an interview with you as well, that’s the reason why I am here. Just to see your eyes for the first time… hopefully we win this game and we can have a drink after. Don’t blush baby” Gayle said before laughing.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81yQrjTyG1E
The reporter, Mel McLaughlin from Australian network Ten Sport, responded to Gayle by stating, “I’m not blushing” before continuing with her next question.
Though Gayle appeared to have been joking, his statements are creating quite not in Australia and the world, as many deem his comments inappropriate and sexist.
According to a report by cricket.com.au, Cricket Australia has condemned Gayle’s statement while Anthony Everard, head of the Big Bash League showed disapproval in a statement released via Twitter.
“I heard Chris’ comments and they’re disrespectful and simply inappropriate. We’ll certainly be talking to him and the Renegades about it,” the statement said.
“This league is all about its appeal to kids, families and females. There is no place in the BBL- or for that matter cricket, anywhere – for that sort of behaviour,” the statement continued.
Ten Sport apologized on air after the interview and later hailed McLaughlin for maintaining professionalism during the interview with Gayle.
Meanwhile some social media users see nothing wrong with Gayle’s comments:
“I’m absolutely outraged that everyone’s so absolutely outraged by @henrygayle being a bit cheeky to a female TV reporter. #BBL05,” popular British journalist Piers morgan tweeted at Gayle.
“Chris Gayle trying to use the interview as a pick up joint is nothing new when it comes to J’can men smh,” a female user stated.
“A bit of fun by @henrygayle everybody relax – no one hurt, injured or dead!” another stated.
Others showed disapproval:
“That incredibly dumb Chris Gayle. Not normally one for apologies, offense etc, but this really is bad manners,” one user stated.
“Well played @Mel_Mclaughlin !! Big fan of @henrygayle but made himself look a bit of a chop there,” another stated.
Reports are that Cricket Australia will announce actions they will take against Gayle today.
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