'I don't try to put on a show'

One is never short of entertainment when West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle is around. There is always a sort of infectious energy about him. Calling Bengaluru his second home, Chris says he comes here whenever he wants to relax and have a good time. The cricketer, who was in the city on behalf of IONA, took time off to speak to Nina C George about life outside the pitch and the precious moments with his daughter.

How do you keep reinventing yourself?

I don’t need to take any extra effort to reinvent myself and that’s precisely why people gravitate towards me. My energy comes from being myself. I don’t try to put on a show. I also think that my energy comes from my mother. She’s full of life and I think that has rubbed off on me.

How is fatherhood?

My daughter is now 15 months old and it is fun being around her. It is heartbreaking whenever I have to leave her behind and travel out. We always talk to each through Skype, but it is nothing like being with her and holding her.

What do you shop for your daughter when you travel?

Actually, I don’t do too much shopping for her. I am sure as she gets older (and I can wait for those moments), she can pick up whatever she wants. There are some fun interactions between me and my daughter.

What do you do when you are not playing cricket?

I believe that there’s no better therapy than sleeping.

Are you choosy about which brand you associate with?

I only choose brands that match my taste. I sign on the dotted line only if I strike the right connection and have a chemistry with it.

What helps you strike the right note with the pitch?

My smile.

How do you handle criticism?

I try to turn all negativity into positivity. There’s really no life without criticism and one is always walking a tricky path. But one has to stand one’s ground and stay strong.

What do you do when you are in Bengaluru?

I know a lot of people here and sometimes, I get invited to their homes. I
have been coming here for more than five years now and I’ve made some good friends in the process. I also have my favourite spots here.

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

I would still be around playing active cricket.