Chris Gayle smashed his way to a record 21st T20 ton and the first of IPL 2018 as his new franchise Kings XI Punjab racked up 193-3 against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Thursday.
The left-handed Gayle finished on 104 not out off 63 balls, his sixth IPL century. The Jamaican was particularly severe on leg-spinner Rashid Khan, whom he deposited for four sixes in an over which yielded 27 runs.
Rashid’s four overs went for 55 runs, as Gayle struck 11 sixes and one four in his knock.
After the knock, Gayle told commentator Kevin Pietersen on the boundary, “A lot of people thought I’m too old; after this innings, I have nothing to prove. This hundred is dedicated to my daughter. Tomorrow is her birthday. This is a good wicket to bat on, just have to go out and defend it. I’m 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’ll be able to touch my toes!”
