‘I Was Disrespected and Felt Depression for the First Time’ – Chris Gayle’s Shocking Revelation on PBKS and IPL Exit

Chris Gayle made a shocking claim and said he felt depressed during his last year in the Indian Premier League (IPL). At that time, he was playing for the Punjab Kings (PBKS). The team was captained by Indian star KL Rahul, and the coach was the legendary spinner Anil Kumble.

The Universe Boss, Chris Gayle, is one of the best T20 players ever. He has scored over 14,500 runs and has played in almost every franchise league around the world. Speaking on Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast, Gayle said the franchise disrespected him. He also said he broke down while talking to then-coach Anil Kumble about his mental health.

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Chris Gayle Opens Up About IPL Exit and PBKS Journey

“My IPL ended early with Punjab. I was disrespected at Kings XI Punjab. I felt I wasn’t treated properly as a senior player who had done a lot for the league and added value to the team. Instead, they treated me like a kid. For the first time in my life, I felt like I was slipping into depression,” Gayle said.

He added that money meant nothing compared to his mental health at that time. “Your mental health is more important than money. I called Anil Kumble and told him I was leaving. During the World Cup bubble, it was mentally draining. After my last game against Mumbai, I thought, ‘Staying will only hurt me more.’”

Gayle said he broke down talking to Kumble because he was really hurt. He was disappointed with him and the way the franchise was run. KL Rahul, the captain, called him saying, “Chris, stay, you’ll play the next game.” But Gayle replied, “I wish you all the best,” packed his bag, and walked out.

When asked about a possible IPL return, the two-time T20 World Cup winner said he was open but admitted there were grudges. “I was mistreated. I am available—if they want me, I’ll come. But yes, I do have grudges. Loyalty means a lot to me,” he said.

IPL 2021 and Gayle’s Career at PBKS

Gayle was talking about IPL 2021, when he left the camp mid-way during the second phase in the UAE, after the league resumed following the COVID-19 suspension. He played two of the three resumed games that season. In total, he played 10 matches and scored 193 runs at an average of 21.44.

With 4,965 runs in 142 IPL matches at an average of 39.72 and a strike rate of 148.92, including six centuries, Gayle is one of the greatest players in IPL history. He joined PBKS in 2018 and stayed until his final season in 2021.