Feeling Undervalued in Punjab Kings
Chris Gayle, one of the most explosive batsmen in cricket history, has disclosed that his departure from the Indian Premier League (IPL) was not purely a sporting decision. Speaking in a recent interview, the Jamaican star said that he felt sidelined and disrespected during his time with Punjab Kings, formerly known as Kings XI Punjab.
Gayle represented the team for four seasons, but according to him, the final stages of his stint were deeply disappointing. “When you give everything to a franchise and don’t get respect in return, it hurts,” Gayle explained.
He added that the treatment from the team management made him feel unappreciated, leading to one of the lowest moments of his career.
Struggling with Mental Health
In a rare and candid admission, Gayle revealed that the episode pushed him into depression for the first time in his life. Known worldwide as the “Universe Boss” for his flamboyant style and powerful batting, Gayle admitted he was shaken emotionally.
The former opener said he reached out to Punjab Kings’ head coach Anil Kumble during that difficult phase. “I called him, and during the conversation, I broke down in tears. It was tough,” he said.
The pressure of professional cricket, combined with a sense of alienation, left him questioning his place in the league.
Support from Teammates
Gayle noted that then-captain KL Rahul tried to convince him to continue playing. Rahul reportedly told him he could feature in the next match, but by then, Gayle had made up his mind.
Instead of returning to the field, he packed his bags and left the team. For Gayle, it was a matter of safeguarding his peace of mind. “Mental health and inner peace are far more important than money or fame,” he stressed.
Broader Questions About IPL Franchises
Gayle’s revelations have sparked fresh debate about how IPL franchises treat senior players. While the league is celebrated for its glamour, financial rewards, and global reach, it has also faced criticism for putting immense pressure on athletes.
The IPL, launched in 2008, is the world’s most lucrative cricket league, with a brand valuation of over $10 billion. Yet behind the spectacle, concerns about player burnout and mental strain are increasingly coming to the forefront.
Players, particularly overseas stars like Gayle, often juggle intense schedules, constant travel, and the need to perform consistently in front of massive crowds. This combination can take a heavy toll on mental well-being.
A Career Full of Records
Gayle’s impact on the IPL cannot be understated. Over the course of his career, he scored 4,965 runs in 142 matches, with an astonishing strike rate of 148.96. He still holds the record for the highest individual score in IPL history — 175 not out for Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2013.
His powerful six-hitting ability transformed T20 cricket and made him a household name. That such a figure could feel disrespected within the league underscores the complexity of franchise dynamics.
Mental Health in Cricket
The former West Indies captain’s remarks also add to a growing global conversation about mental health in sports. In recent years, several high-profile cricketers — including England’s Ben Stokes, Australia’s Glenn Maxwell, and India’s Virat Kohli — have spoken openly about mental struggles.
Gayle’s experience highlights that even seasoned veterans are not immune. His decision to step away shows how professional athletes are beginning to prioritize mental well-being over professional obligations.
Legacy Beyond the Field
Although Gayle no longer plays in the IPL, his influence remains strong. Fans still remember his towering sixes and charismatic celebrations. Yet his latest revelation may prove just as significant as his on-field heroics.
By speaking out, Gayle has drawn attention not only to how franchises value their players but also to the importance of safeguarding athletes’ mental health in modern sport.
