How RCB Revived Chris Gayle After He Went Unsold in IPL Auction

Chris Gayle is being regarded as one of the finest batters in the IPL history. But it would not have been possible if Royal Challengers Bangalore decided to go for some other player. It all started with the 2011 auction, when Lalit Modi suggested RCB to go for Gayle.

Chris Gayle, former IPL player, has retired from the tournament at an all-time high. Whether it was his batting, his bowling, fielding, or anything else, he inspired the fans to a great extent. But, only a few of them know the actual story of how Chris Gayle managed to make it to the IPL and how he went for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Lalit Modi revealed what actually happened with Chris Gayle's fate in the auction. He went unsold in the IPL 2011, and told Lalit Modi that he is in need of some money. At this time, Lalit decided to call Vijay Mallya, the owner of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, to go with Gayle. Vijay Mallya clearly said that he will pay Gayle if he performs.

So, from the IPL 2011 season, Gayle didn't just perform, he went on to dominate. At a time when T20 cricket was growing, he was creating records which still remain untouched. Even till this date, fans remember the knock of 175 runs he played for RCB against Pune Warriors India.

Our Take

The call between Lalit Modi and Vijay Mallya turned out to be the one which changed two destinies. One was of Chris Gayle who was in desperate need of money to pay his bills and debts, as he now stands as one of the wealthiest in Caribbean cricket. And the other is Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who are still known for its explosive batting line-up.