Chris Gayle could rethink decision to retire from ODIs after latest knock

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Following his brilliant form in the ongoing ODI series against England, left-handed batsman Chris Gayle says he is reconsidering his decision  to retire after this year’s World Cup. On Wednesday, Gayle smashed a 97-ball 162 in a losing cause in the fourth at the National Cricket Stadium in St George’s, Grenada.

Earlier this month, Gayle had announced his ODI retirement after participating in the World Cup in England but has hinted he might be tempted to make a U-turn. “What’s the matter with the body? I’m nearly 40. But could I un-retire? We’ll see. We’ll take it slowly,” Gayle said.

Chris Gayle smashed 162 off 97 balls in the fourth game which saw 14 sixes and 11 boundaries.

The 39-year-old became the 14th cricketer and second West Indian after fellow left-hander Brian Lara to amass 10,000 ODI runs on Wednesday.

Gayle will play in his fifth World Cup in England and Wales, which starts on May 30. “I’ve been playing a lot of T20 cricket, so it’s always going to be a difficult coming back into 50-over cricket. But eventually the body gets accustomed to the 50-over format.”

Gayle’s biggest issue has been his fitness and he admitted managing his body will be vital in extending his ODI career. “I just have to work on the body and then maybe you can see a bit more Chris Gayle, maybe. Things change quickly. Hopefully the body can change in the next couple of months and we can see what happens,” he said.

I’m in good condition. The body is feeling good and I’m pleased with that. I’ve lost a bit of weight and I don’t want to get too big. I’m still working on my six pack. I’m trying to keep up with the youngsters in the field who are like cats the way they chase the ball. I still have it in me and I’m still enjoying it,” he added.