The Hindu : Sport / Cricket : Chris Gayle disappointed

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Monday, Jun 05, 2006

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Sport - Cricket

Chris Gayle disappointed

Special Correspondent

St. John's: West Indies opening batsman Chris Gayle's 72 off 91 balls helped West Indies gain an early edge over India on the second day of the first Test here at the Antigua Recreation Ground.

``It was a good innings, but it was disappointing to get out at a crucial time,'' said the left-hander. ``The wicket was a bit difficult early, but as you batted longer the ball tended to come on. The lead is important. It's disappointing that we lost too many wickets. Bravo and Chanderpaul were crucial wickets. But, we have two capable batsmen in Ramdin and Bradshaw and hopefully they can put on some more.''

Game plan

Gayle said attacking India's inexperienced seam attack was part of his game plan. ``It was good to put them under pressure to see if they crumbled. If they crumbled, I could use that to my advantage. Their inexperience helped me because they allowed me to free my arms and that's my strength.''

The man from Jamaica spoke of the responsibilities being a senior player entailed. ``It's time to show that seniority and stamp my class.'' Which Indian bowler impressed him? ``They are all capable bowlers. There's Kumble, who is very experienced, and handles pressure very well. There's nothing to take for granted.''

Pitch getting better

On the track, Gayle said, ``It's playing much better than the first day. It will suit the batsmen; it is becoming a typical Antigua wicket.'' He said he thought he got a nick on the delivery Munaf Patel had a leg-before appeal on early in his innings. ``I can't complain. This is cricket.''

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