Balance is the key to hitting sixes: Chris Gayle

The scorching weather of India suits nicely for a carefree Caribbean cricketer. Not only has Chris Gayle virtually assured himself of the highest scorer's honours in the fifth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), his 62-ball unbeaten 128 on Thursday night against the Delhi Daredevils is also the most talked about innings in the tournament so far.

In a freewheeling conversation with Gulf News, Gayle discussed not only his scintillating form, but also other current issues confronting his career. Here are a few excerpts:

GULF NEWS: Sachin Tendulkar had the record of scoring the most runs in a single edition of IPL — 618 in the 2010 season. What do you feel about your current score of 706 (and still counting)?

CHRIS GAYLE: Well, that happens in cricket. Records are there to be broken by someone else, isn't it? I am happy to contribute towards the team's cause.

Do your think the century, studded with 13 sixes, is your best knock in the IPL so far?

Definitely, one of the best innings I had played in the IPL so far. It kept our chances alive in the tournament and I must say Virat (Kohli), too, had played a significant part in it.

Together, we achieved what the team wanted from us and that made me happy.

What is the secret of these big sixes?

Balance — it's the most important word in batting for me. If you are perfectly balanced, you can send the balls in the direction you want them to be sent. I try to stay still and hit along the line.

Somehow, it (hitting big sixers) comes naturally to me.

Is it true that the West Indies cricket board would call you back for national duty?

The good news should come from our cricket board officials. What I can tell you is that the dialogue has already taken place between me and WICB (West Indies Cricket Board) and I am positive about it. I have now satisfied all of the requests of the WICB and their selection panel. I don't know when they will finally call me. I am hopeful but it all depends on them.

Is that the reason for which you withdrew yourself from Somerset?

I have written to Somerset County Council and advised them that I will not be honouring the commitment I made when I signed a contract with them for the 2012 Friends Provident Championship. I could visualise something good might happen for me, so I informed them long ago that I would not be able to play.

I did not want to inform them in the last minute. Now they can look for substitutes.

How will you describe the sensational and talented Caribbean spinner Sunil Narine?

He is a mystery bowler. He can get the ball to turn both ways. On a better surface, you may try to get on top of him. But it was difficult on this surface. He is maturing everyday.

I am very happy to see him flourishing, more so, because he is troubling the top Indian batsmen who are genuine good players against spin bowling.

Being the highest run-getter, you are also the proud owner of the Orange cap now.

I am not going to focus on the Orange Cap. It's just a secondary thing for me.

As a teamman, I always look at the team's benefit. A team win is more important for all of us.

Are you still peeved at the way Kolkata Knight Riders removed you from their franchise?

There is no grudge. We are all family. In the middle, you are fighting a battle and both teams would want to win, but in this format, there is never going to be any grudge.

I don't want to look back. Life is very short. Let us enjoy the current moment.