Chris Gayle blanked for Ireland, England series

Veteran batsman Chris Gayle will not get his desired farewell from international cricket before his home crowd this month, as he was not included in the squad for the one-off T20 International against Ireland at Sabina Park, Jamaica.

He was also omitted from the T20 team series against England to follow from January 22 to 30, 2022 at Kensington Oval, Barbados.

The 42 year-old Jamaican had indicated his desire to play one final match in West Indies colors in an international match at home, after West Indies’ failed campaign at the T20 World Cup last October.

Speaking to journalists on Zoom last week, head coach Phil Simmons when asked about Gayle’s omission from the T20 and ODI squads said it is great to honor cricketers but the strongest team must be chosen.

However, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development in Jamaica announced last week that no fans will be allowed for forthcoming sports events due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

But CWI CEO Johnny Grave said the board is having discussions with Gayle in an effort to give him a send-off in Jamaica.