New Delhi:
Chris Gayle who is known for his hard hits on field got fined for 'disrespecting' a TV reporter live during a conversation.
Gayle who plays for Club Melbourne Renegades was fined for Gayle USD 7,000 today after an attempt to flirt with a female presenter on live TV. The authorities condemned the attempted as completely out of line.
Apparently, it seemed that Chris was indulged in a healthy flirting with Ten Network reporter Mel McLaughlin when she was asked for a drink during an interview. The reporter, as seen by her reaction, seemed uncomfortable about the comment.
Live on air, Gayle—who later insisted he was just joking—said he was happy to be interviewed by McLaughlin “just to see your eyes for the first time”.
“Nice, so hopefully we can win this game and we can have a drink after,” he said.
“Don’t blush baby,” the Jamaican added, prompting the unimpressed McLaughlin to shake her head and reply, “I’m not blushing.”
“Sorry,” added Gayle, breaking into a big laugh.
Cricket Australia and Big Bash League officials did not see the funny side of what Gayle later said was meant as a joke.
Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland offered support for McLaughlin, saying that no one should have to face such comments which were “completely out of line” and “inappropriate for the workplace”.
He said Gayle was not in a “nightclub” and his behaviour was “not cool”.
“I think that anyone who sees humour in that is misunderstanding and somewhat delusional about the situation,” Sutherland added.
The governing body is also open for sanctions if they find it required. With the governing body leaving open a threat of sanctions, the Renegades quickly announced a fine.
