West Indies cricket star Chris Gayle has abandoned Indian Premier League (IPL) citing ‘bubble fatigue’, and T20 World Cup.
In a statement, Punjab Kings said that Gayle left the team hotel because of “bubble fatigue” as he played for months in the franchise and international cricket during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The universe boss played two out of three matches for Punjab Kings since IPL resumed in the United Arab Emirates last month.
In a statement, Gayle said that he desired to mentally rejuvenate and refresh himself.
The 42-year-old cricketer said, “I want to refocus on helping the West Indies in the T20 World Cup and would like to take a break in Dubai.”
Gayle released the music video of his new single ‘Punjabi Daddy’ with the self-styled ‘Universe Boss’ wearing a traditional Indian dress and shaking a leg to the catchy tune.
Players in world cricket have often been restricted to strict bio-bubbles because of the coronavirus that has frustrated most of the players in recent months.
They frequently have to stay within the confines of their team hotel and often cannot mingle with anyone outside, even on non-match days.
Earlier other players like Kieron Pollard, Andre Russel, and David Warner have opted out of The Hundred tournament earlier this year.
The IPL has also been hit by withdrawals and abandonment, with Josh Hazlewood and Liam Livingstone already staying away for similar reasons.
Kings head coach Anil Kumble said that the team respected Gayl’s decision and his desire to prepare for the T20 World Cup 2021.
Gayle has scored 193 runs in his last 10 matches this season at an average of 21.44.
