I'm the greatest player in the world and I'll take that to the grave, says Chris Gayle

Chris Gayle had announced that he would retire from ODI cricket after the World Cup 2019 and self-proclaimed that he is still the Universe Boss. He said that his attitude would remain the same forever and that after the tournament, he would still be supporting the youngsters. 

"You're looking at a great man. I'm the greatest player in the world. Of course, I'm still the Universe Boss. That will never change. I'll take that to the grave. I'm looking to draw the line after the World Cup. Or should I say cut the string? Definitely, in 50-over cricket, the World Cup is the end for me. I'll let the youngsters have some fun and I can sit back in the party stand and watch them have some fun," he said at Kensington Oval on Sunday. 

The West Indies opener had shared that he was in good condition and was trying to keep up with the youngsters in the field. He had also mentioned that he would be bringing some experience in the dressing room and was looking forward to the final frontier with his national team. 

"I'm in good condition. The body is feeling good and I'm pleased with that. I'm trying to keep up with the youngsters in the field who are like cats the way they chase the ball. I still have it in me and I'm still enjoying it. Being back in West Indies colours is the most important thing. I'll be bringing some experience to play and sharing that with the youngsters and I hope to enjoy the next couple of months with the West Indies cricket team, ” Gayle was quoted as saying by the Cricbuzz.

The big hitter was poignant when he recalled the last game he played in Barbados and indicated that the upcoming series against England in West Indies might be the last time he would play at home before retirement post the ICC World Cup 2019. 

"This series against England might be the last time people get to see the Universe Boss on local soil. The last game I played in Barbados for Jamaica I got a hundred and it would be nice to continue where I left off and entertain the home fans as much as possible. At the end of the day, everybody should be happy and enjoy the game," Gayle asserted.

The spirited Jamaican expressed that winning the World Cup would be an ideal way to end his career and that the youngsters owe it to him. He said that the players should try to win the trophy for him and he would look to contribute as well. 

"Winning the World Cup would be a fairy-tale finish," he said. "The youngsters owe it to me to win. They have to do that for me and try and get me the trophy. I'll be looking to put my input in as well," Gayle concluded.