Chris Gayle made a commendable comeback into Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 scoring a half-century against Chennai Super Kings (CSK). But it was just a trailer from the ‘Universe Boss’ as he went on to hit IPL 2018’s first century in Kings XI Punjab’s (KXIP) next match against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) — a side whose bowling lineup was considered the most lethal in the league.
It was Gayle’s 21st century in T20 cricket and 6th in IPL. As Gayle struck his maiden century for Kings XI Punjab (KXIP), owner Preity Zinta jumped in joy and lauded his innings. Yuvraj Singh too danced in the dugout with his pads and helmet on. Gayle dedicated the century to his wife and daughter, who will be celebrating her birthday on April 20.
This is how @YUVSTRONG12 celebrated @henrygayle‘s CENTURY! #KXIPvSRH #IPL2018 pic.twitter.com/cdzpCpxmSR
— Satnam Sohal (@imSatnam_) April 19, 2018
KXIP showed trust in Gayle when every other franchise including Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) ignored him twice in IPL 2018 auctions. KXIP roped him in the third round for his base price, Rs 2 crore. It seems like Gayle was raring to show the franchise his talent. He was not picked in the first two matches and was given a chance in KXIP’s third match by skipper Ravichandran Ashwin.
Gayle thrashes Rashidhttps://t.co/O5OB4l1h3o
— Faizal Khan (@faizalkhanm9) April 19, 2018
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The opener has cemented his place in KXIP’s opening slot with two back-to-back tremendous performances. He did not even spare Rashid Khan, hitting him for 4 consecutive sixes — something no batsman has been able to do in the world before him.
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He led KXIP’s batting lineup, scoring 104 runs from 63 balls, including 1 four and 11 sixes at a strike rate of 165.08. KXIP scored 193 runs in the first innings in Mohali, posing a threat to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
