Image Source: AP
[Saba Sports News] Veteran West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle has shared insights into his close friendship with Indian star Virat Kohli, developed during their time at Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Both players have enjoyed a strong bond both on and off the cricket field, with notable performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Kohli, the league’s top scorer with 7,263 runs from 229 games, and Gayle, holding the record for the highest IPL individual score of 175* runs, have formed an impressive partnership over the years.
In a conversation with Star Sports, Gayle spoke highly of their relationship, highlighting their significant on-field partnerships, including several century stands. Gayle described their complementary batting styles, with himself attacking from the outset while Kohli paced his innings thoughtfully. Gayle fondly recalled the 2016 IPL season when Kohli scored 973 runs with four centuries, marking a high point in their collaboration.
“We had a good relationship, we had a great relationship pretty much on and off the field. We have some very very outstanding partnerships in the middle. We opened the batting together, and we have a couple of hundred-run partnerships. Pretty much I was the guy who was firing from ball 1, he was pretty much take his time to build his innings. I remember he had that fantastic run in 2016, he scored over 900 runs, four centuries as well in the IPL.”
However, Gayle revealed that 2017 marked his final year with RCB, a period that coincided with personal joy but professional challenges. Despite his exceptional record, Gayle felt sidelined from the team, an experience he found bewildering.
Nonetheless, he cherishes the moments shared with Kohli, from dance celebrations to memorable off-field camaraderie, emphasizing the enduring nature of their friendship.
“So that was fantastic. And that year was pretty much my last year, I think, with RCB. But that year was a special year for me because that’s the year my daughter was born, had to leave IPL, and then I went home to the birth of my child, my daughter at the time. And then I came back for the RCB team and I just couldn’t find myself fitting back in the team, which was very ridiculous being one of the best overseas players and I just couldn’t find a way back in the RCB team. But Kohli, we had some great moments off the field as well.”
“Some dance moves, a signature meet and greet, but it was just good fun. The after-parties upstairs at the hotel at that particular time were really good camaraderie together and was just one of those moments where we cherish those memories. Those memories will actually live on forever. And like I said, great guy as well.”
Gayle’s reflections underscore the depth of their connection, extending beyond cricket to form lasting memories. Kohli continues to represent RCB, with anticipation for his performance in the 2024 IPL season.