Gayle’s behaviour fairly expected, says Watson

Veteran Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has said he was not surprised by Chris Gayle’s behaviour, adding that the controversial remarks made by the Jamaican during an interview with a female presenter were “fairly expected”.

Gayle was fined USD 10,000 by his Big Bash League side Melbourne Renegades for his on-air mid-match comments to hannel 10 journalist Mel McLaughlin during a BBL match.

“I have played against Chris for a long time, since I started really, and that behaviour is fairly expected,” Watson was quoted as saying by ‘Daily Telegraph’.

“People who know Chris Gayle will know those are the sort of things he can do at times, and at an inappropriate time, obviously it gets him into a fair bit of trouble,” he added.

Gayle invited controversy after he said he was happy to be interviewed by McLaughlin “just to see your eyes for the first time” during his sides’ win over the Hobart Hurricanes on Monday. “Nice, so hopefully we can win this game and we can have a drink after,” he had said.

“Don’t blush baby,” the Jamaican added, prompting McLaughlin to shake her head and reply, “I’m not blushing.” Watson made it clear that Gayle had overstepped the mark with McLaughlin, and supported Cricket Australia’s plans to make sure this summer would be Gayle’s last.

“There is no doubt people have always loved coming along and watching him (Gayle) play because of the entertainment he can certainly provide.