In a revealing insight, Chris Gayle has said it’ll be difficult for the West Indies to get back their glory days in the longest format of the game. A force to reckon with in the shortest format, the West Indies’ level in Test cricket has seen a steady decline and the explosive batsman feels the scenario is only going to get worse as the modern-day cricket will not let them concentrate solely on Tests.
Speaking to the Press Trust of India, the 37-year old said:“It will be difficult for West Indies to go back where they were in Test cricket. The structure of modern day cricket is such that it will be difficult to regain those days of glory because of the advent of the shorter format and the interest that it has generated among the youngsters. In longer formats, you need to concentrate more and have that game discipline in order to achieve consistency.”
“If you look at our T20 success it is because of the short duration that helps one play their attacking game. So if you ask me about a turnaround (in Tests), it seems difficult as of now,” he added.
One of the finest exponents of the T20 format, Gayle believes the upcoming generation of the West Indies players will be more inclined to play for the cash-rich T20 leagues around the world.
“You cannot rule out that possibility that Gen Next in the Caribbean will be more inclined to play T20 leagues. If you are a professional cricketer, you would want to have a good career. With so many leagues across the globe, one needs to accept it as a reality today,” he pointed out.
One of the biggest reasons for deteriorating condition of the West Indies is the unrest between the cricket board and players.
When Gayle was asked about his personal rift with the board, he said:“No, I have not spoken to anybody. I believe we have a designated players’ body and they represent us. If the players need to voice any concern they tell it to the association.”
At the same time, he admitted there are some issues which need to be sorted for the betterment of the West Indies cricket.
He said: “Everyone has some sort of responsibility to take West Indies cricket forward. You don’t want a situation like Dwayne Bravo was in. Every player wants to play for the West Indies but there are issues that need to be addressed.”
When asked about his future plans, the southpaw said he is eyeing a return to action in the Pakistan Super League. The veteran batsman is also harbouring hopes of playing in the 2019 ICC World Cup.
He said:”“I am not playing in the Big Bash as I am spending time with my family and recuperating from an injury. I am eyeing a comeback during Pakistan Super League (PSL) and then the Indian Premier League. If I am fit and in form, I would still like to play for the West Indies, not only in T20 but in ODIs as well. If you ask me, I would like to play till the 2019 World Cup in England. That’s a target I have set for myself.”