Windies captain Jason Holder has unequivocally backed the inclusion of explosive opening batsman Chris Gayle in Windies’ squad for next year’s Cricket World Cup.
Holder’s side are currently touring India without Gayle, the hard-hitting batsman having chosen to play in the Bangladesh Premier League rather than make himself available for selection. However, Holder said he had shown plenty of commitment when it mattered, helping Windies progress through the Cricket World Cup Qualifier.
“He (Gayle) is definitely going to play the World Cup once his body holds up and he’s fit,” said Holder. “We’d welcome him into the team. If you go back to the beginning of the year, Chris made himself available for the World Cup qualifiers. He only did that really because he wants to play the World Cup, he wants to play well for West Indies and he wants to do well.
“He was obviously a pivotal part in us qualifying to the World Cup. Guys like him, Marlon Samuels, who really made themselves available on that instance credit must go to them and not only them, to each and every individual who have come up to represent West Indies.
“They knew the significance and importance of that tournament; we played against teams we probably weren’t accustomed to playing against. It was difficult. But as the series went on, we rallied well and we achieved the objective.”
“When he does that he has plenty of options around the world to make money it says something about the individual, says something about what he wants and I really admire that. Chris is an all-star.”
Holder also pointed out that Gayle’s decision allows Windies to test their depth ahead of next year’s tournament.
“I think he’s one of the most entertaining players in the world but his absence gives another player an opportunity,” Holder said. “We have a limited time leading up to the World Cup and it’s a good option to see what we have in the tank.”
