People are still looking out for me, says Chris Gayle

Showing signs of coming back to form, Gayle made a blistering 38-ball 77, embellished with seven sixes, to guide Royal Challengers Bangalore to a 21-run win over Gujarat Lions in Rajkot on Tuesday. In the process, Gayle also became the first batsman in the world to reach the 10,000-run landmark in T20s. And Gayle believes that this knock could not have come at a better time.

"People are still looking out for Chris Gayle. The universe boss is still here and still alive. It was great fun. You know it's good to be back. I wanted this so badly, but first of all, to get 10,000 runs, it was actually on my mind, so I'm glad to get that sort of achievement. It's a privilege to actually be the first person to get there. Hopefully, I can continue entertaining the fans.

Coming into the match, Gayle had the lowest strike rate amongst all the openers who had played at least 50 balls this season and he corrected that anomaly by smashing the Gujarat bowlers all around the park yesterday.

“It all depends on how you feel, the determination is important. It’s a special occasion to reach 10,000 runs. A lot of guys spoke to me about my stance. Even Shaun Pollock spoke to me about my stance. You’re never too old to learn.”

The big-hitting Jamaican was pretty emotional while thanking the people for his knock and didn’t forget to thank everyone who helped him get there.

"I just want to thank the fans and all the franchises where I have actually played around the world. Even playing for West Indies as well. At the end of the day, they have actually played a part in this 10,000 runs as well. So, I want to thank all the franchises. It has been fantastic and like I said still I have a lot more to offer to the fans. Hopefully, I can keep entertaining and get a few more thousand runs under my belt."