The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and cricketer Chris Gayle have confirmed that he will not be playing in this year’s edition of the tournament and will instead focus his efforts on the new 60-ball competition dubbed the “6IXTY”.
In a statement, Gayle said: “I am going for the shorter format this year. I am genuinely excited about the current innovations in the 6IXTY and seeing how they play out. In particular, I am looking forward to the mystery team ball and hitting two sixes in the first 12 balls to unlock a third Power Play over.”
Gayle, the self-proclaimed Universe Boss, is the 6IXTY’s brand ambassador and he will be acting as host for the teams.
He has worked with the tournament organizers to develop the new format.
The tournament will feature six men’s teams and three women’s teams who will be fighting for their own version of the Universe Boss Trophy, named in Chris Gayle’s honor.
Gayle noted: “It is a great feeling to actually have a trophy named after The Universe Boss, something fantastic, and I am really and truly looking forward to it. I am sure people will ask if this is real, a trophy named for Chris Gayle. Yes, it is happening, and I am really happy about it. I am looking forward to all the innovations.”
Cricket West Indies President, Ricky Skerritt said: “Chris has been the most prolific run-scorer in white-ball cricket and has served West Indies outstandingly well in all versions of the game. The 6IXTY is a perfect way to pay tribute to Chris and to thank him for his many years of his entertainment of CPL and West Indian fans everywhere.”
Pete Russell, Hero CPL’s CEO, stated: “Chris Gayle has been such a huge part of the CPL’s success, and we are delighted he has agreed to be a big part of this exciting new opportunity for Caribbean cricket. There is no one who better represents Cricket’s Power Game, and partnering with him for this event is hugely exciting. We can’t wait to watch Chris smash even more sixes at The 6IXTY.”
The inaugural season of the 6IXTY will take place from August 24 to 28 at Warner Park in St Kitts & Nevis, just before the 10th season of the CPL.
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