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Chris Gayle revealed he left Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 due to feeling disrespected, citing mental health struggles.
Chris Gayle in PBKS jersey
Universe Boss Chris Gayle’s exploits in T20 cricket are unmatchable. With over 14500 runs under his belt, the devastating batter has played in almost every franchise league across the globe. Out of the 9 T20 Leagues he has played so far, he scored the most in the IPL. 4965 runs in 142 matches, representing three teams – Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings – from 2009 to 2021. He still holds the record for most sixes – 357 – in the Indian Premier League. Despite being an IPL legend and boasting insane batting records, his exit from the league was unceremonious.
He last played against the Mumbai Indians in 2021, representing Punjab, before he left the season midway. Years after that incident, he revealed what prompted him to make that move.
Speaking on Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast, Gayle accused the franchise of disrespecting him. He even admitted breaking down while speaking to then-coach Anil Kumble while discussing his mental state.
“Oh my IPL ended prematurely with Punjab. To be honest, I was disrespected at Kings XI Punjab. I felt I wasn’t treated properly as a senior player who had done so much for the league and brought value to the franchise. 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 peace at that stage.
“Your mental health is more important than money. I called Anil (Kumble) and told him I was leaving. At the time, we had the World Cup and were stuck in a bubble, which was destroying me mentally. After my last game against Mumbai, I thought, ‘This doesn’t make sense. I’ll do myself more damage by staying.’”
“I broke down talking to Anil because I was really hurt. I was disappointed with him and the way the franchise was run. KL Rahul, the captain, even called me saying, ‘Chris, stay, you’ll play the next game.’ But I just said, ‘I wish you all the best,’ packed my 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,” Gayle said.
A cricket enthusiast whose dreams of playing for India paved the way for a compelling journey in journalism. With a comprehensive coverage spanning international and domestic cricket across formats, I have had …Read More
A cricket enthusiast whose dreams of playing for India paved the way for a compelling journey in journalism. With a comprehensive coverage spanning international and domestic cricket across formats, I have had … Read More
September 08, 2025, 10:47 IST
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