The Century Against Hyderabad Is Dedicated to My Daughter: Gayle

A lot of people thought I’m too old. After this innings, I have nothing to prove, says Chris Gayle.

File photo of Chris Gayle.

(Photo: BCCI)

Chris Gayle bludgeoned his sixth Indian Premier League hundred to help Kings XI Punjab beat Sunrisers Hyderabad by 15 runs on Thursday.

Gayle scored 104 not out off 63 balls, containing 11 sixes and one four, as Punjab hit 193-3 after becoming the first team to win the toss and elect to bat first in this year's competition.

This hundred is dedicated to my daughter. Tomorrow is her birthday. I am very dedicated. Since joining Kings XI, Sehwag told me to stick with the yoga guy and a massage guy, that’s the secret, I guess (laughs). In a week’s time, I will be able to touch my toes.

Chris Gayle

The West Indian opener was particularly harsh on Rashid Khan, clubbing six sixes off him, including four in the 14th over.

I think (director of cricket operations) Virender Sehwag saved the IPL by picking me (in the January auctions). A lot of people thought I’m too old. After this innings, I have nothing to prove.

Chris Gayle

Sunrisers could only manage 178-4 in reply as it plunged to its first defeat in the competition.

Hyderabad suffered a big blow early on when opener Shikhar Dhawan was hit on his left elbow and retired hurt without scoring.

Kane Williamson (54) and Manish Pandey (57 not out) put on 76 for the third wicket although their partnership was a bit too slow as the asking rate mounted.

Pandey also added a quickfire 45 in 22 balls for the fifth wicket with Shakib Al Hasan (24 not out) but Punjab held its nerve.

Hats off to Chris, he was at his best. It was a fantastic hundred and they deserved the win. We weren’t up to the mark tonight.

Chris Gayle

(With inputs from PTI and AP)

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