Sports: Gayle pleased after ‘strong’ performance

Opener, Samuels hit tons as West Indies beat New Zealand in 2nd ODI.

KINGSTON: Chris Gayle was pleased with the all-round effort of the team after West Indies registered a 55-run win over New Zealand to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match One-Day International (ODI) series at Sabina Park.

After three successive half-centuries in the two Twenty20s and the first ODI, Gayle showed local fans what they had been missing after 12 months of international exile by hitting a quickfire 125. Marlon Samuels also compiled 101 as the hosts posted 315 for five before the bowlers bundled out New Zealand for 260.

For Gayle this was his 20th ODI ton, a new West Indies record, surpassing the previous record set by Brian Lara.

“What was really pleasing to see was the way we controlled the game,” said Gayle. “We turned up the tempo at the right time and we were strong in all departments.”

Samuels, who also took two wickets and was named man of the match, praised Gayle and was pleased with his performance. “He set the stage and then I was able to come in and add the finishing touches.

“It was an enjoyable day for me and the team. It was special to do it with so many people who have done so much for me in my life watching.”

The two teams will contest the third ODI on Wednesday with the West Indies looking to seal the series.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 9^th, 2012.