Gayle says IPL "is the biggest franchise cricket league in the world"

Chris Gayle said in Thiruvananthapuram on August 29, 2026 that "IPL is the biggest franchise cricket league in the world" while in Keralam as a co-owner of the Kochi Blue Tigers. He wore a custom-made Kochi Blue Tigers jersey and spoke about his new role in the KCL during the visit.

Gayle recalled a difficult memory from Kochi, noting that in the only international match he played there in 2013 he "pulled his hamstring and was run out for a duck." The 46-year-old said he had previously visited Keralam with his family when he was playing for Punjab Kings and that he "had a great time in the backwaters." He added, "I am now here for a different reason," and said, "To be part of Blue Tigers as a co-owner is something new and fantastic, something to look forward to particularly in the future. I think from a player’s point of view, being associated with a team after a career in any sport is fantastic."

Gayle said he had not been following the KCL closely but believed he could help develop the brand. "Overall, there is a lot of talent in India, so that is nothing new for me to come and talk about. IPL is the biggest franchise cricket league in the world, and KCL can open doors for players to get to the IPL. Having someone of my calibre as part of KCL is huge," he said.

On his contribution to KCL, Gayle said he could offer strategic input. "I can share my views on how to build the league," he said, and linked that role to opportunities for younger players.

Discussing changes in the shortest format, Gayle commented on how batting approaches have evolved. "The game has truly changed. Everybody is pretty much hitting sixes and it is like a free will. It is fantastic," he said, attributing the shift to younger players who now dominate the format.

Gayle also addressed the state of West Indies cricket, saying: "They are in a rebuilding situation right now. They just finished 1-1 in the series against Pakistan. There is a long process to go forward. I don’t want to say anything more about it now."