KARACHI – West Indies opening batsman Chris Gayle is again being singled out as a player for intense scrutiny as momentum builds ahead of next month’s ICC Champions Trophy.
Pakistan off-spinner Saeed Ajmal says Gayle, widely considered the world’s most dangerous, is among opposition batsmen being targeted.
Gayle set the cricket world abuzz with an astonishing 175 not out in the Indian Premier League (IPL) last month.
“We are targeting players like Chris Gayle, who plays so well in Twenty20,” Ajmal said.
“He may be a good batsman but I am also the No. 1 spinner in ODI (One-Day Internationals) and look forward to dismissing him quickly and seizing the advantage.”
Ajmal has been working closely with Pakistan’s video analyst as part of a strategy to target Gayle and other opposition batsmen.
Ajmal is the second player within weeks, following South Africa captain A.B. de Villiers, who has identified the West Indian batsman as a player to watch for the tournament.
“I know the teams plan against me. And I am also planning against them,” said Ajmal.
“Although I haven’t added any new variation this time, I am looking at their videos and planning accordingly. Spinners have an important role in all formats of the game and those like me, who bowl in death overs, have to work extra hard to counter he batsmen.”
The ICC Champions Trophy runs from June 6 to 23 in England and Wales, and West Indies and Pakistan will play in the second match on June 7. (CMC)
