'I am thoroughly enjoying my role as a mentor' - Chris Gayle expresses excitement after getting new opportunity at Kerala Cricket League

Chris Gayle, co-owner of the Kochi Blue Tigers franchise, arrived in Thiruvananthapuram to attend Kerala Cricket League (KCL) matches at Greenfield International Stadium in Kariavattom on August 29. The West Indies legend received a tumultuous welcome on arrival in the state capital, reflecting the enthusiasm surrounding his involvement with the franchise and the league's growing prominence in Indian cricket.

At a press conference held in Thiruvananthapuram, Gayle spoke alongside team owner Subhash George Manuel, captain Sali Samson and vice-captain Basil Thampi about his involvement with the franchise and the league's significance for emerging talent. The discussion centred on how the Kerala Cricket League serves as a vital platform for young cricketers to showcase their abilities and earn national recognition.

Gayle isn't just the co-owner, but he has also been appointed as the mentor of the side, which reflects the franchise's commitment to blending international expertise with local talent development. He outlined his approach to supporting the young players in the squad and the broader objectives of his involvement with the Kochi Blue Tigers.

"I am thoroughly enjoying my role as a mentor. My goal is to share my decades of international experience, tactical insights, and pitch strategies directly with these youngsters to help them elevate their game," Gayle said.

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Gayle praised the amount of talent there is in Kerala and opined that a highly competitive tournament like the KCL

"Kerala is home to an incredible pool of cricketing talent, and the KCL is the golden opportunity they need," Gayle said.

"It is through highly competitive local leagues of this calibre that international stars are discovered and groomed," the former West Indies captain added.

Gayle also spoke about the state of cricket in the West Indies. The Caribbean side has been going through a tough phase, with wins being few and far between. However, Gayle expressed optimism, saying that the team will bounce back strongly and take its place back among the top teams in world cricket.