ICC World Cup 2019: Chris Gayle named vice-captain of Windies
Opener Chris Gayle was named the vice-captain of the Windies squad for the ICC World Cup 2019 in England. In what would be Gayle's final ODI tournament, he would support regular skipper Jason Holder. Meanwhile, Gayle said that it was his "responsibility to support the captain and everyone else in the team". Notably, Gayle has already announced his retirement plans.
Gayle to be vice-captain for the last time
Gayle has previously led Windies
Gayle is not new to leadership, as he has previously led the side between 2007 to 2010, in 90 matches. Overall, he has enjoyed an illustrious career. He has played 103 Tests, 289 ODIs and 58 T20Is, while he has scored 18,992 international runs. Interestingly, Gayle is the only West Indian to have scored a double hundred in the ODIs.
An honor to represent Windies in any format
"It is always an honor to represent the West Indies in any format, and this World Cup for me is special. This will probably be the biggest World Cup, so there will be great expectations, and I know we will do very well," Gayle said.
Gayle's phenomenal form makes him must-watch for World Cup
Gayle has been in an astonishing form this IPL, having scored the second-most runs for KXIP, after KL Rahul. He scored 490 runs at an average of 40.83, including the highest score of an unbeaten 99. In his last 10 ODIs, he has scored 576 runs at an average of 64, including three half-centuries and two tons, making him Holder's deserving deputy.
Gayle's IPL commitment makes Shai Hope vice-captain for Ireland tri-series
Windies are currently playing an ODI tri-series in Ireland, involving Bangladesh as well. However, Gayle is not a part of that squad owing to his IPL commitments with Kings Xi Punjab. Although KXIP have failed to qualify for the play-offs, Gayle would not be joining the squad in Ireland. In the same light, Shai Hope has been named vice-captain for this series.
Hope happy to accept Windies vice-captaincy
"Ahead of this tournament, I was asked to take on this role and I was happy to accept. Anything I'm asked to do for West Indies cricket, I'm always happy and willing to put my hand up, so this is great," vocalized Hope.
Gayle and Windies eye third World Cup title
As for now, Gayle would be getting some much-needed rest before starting his preparations for the World Cup. Meanwhile, Windies would be hoping for a prolific performance in the Ireland tri-series, as a win would boost their confidence ahead of the mega tournament. Windies would eye history books as they look to win their third World Cup title, starting May 30.
