Gayle faces operation

29 April 2008

Chris Gayle has been advised to have surgery on his groin

Chris Gayle’s hopes of playing in the Indian Premier League have finally been dashed after doctors advised the West Indies batsman to undergo surgery to overcome his groin injury.

The opener, who has been signed up to the Kolkata Knight Riders, was taken to a city hospital on Monday, where an MRI scan confirmed a hairline fracture. He was accompanied by the team physio Andrew Leipus.

Gayle has been travelling with the team since his arrival in India last week, but has not played any of their three matches.

The 28-year-old is apparently awaiting West Indies Cricket Board’s nod before taking a final decision on treatment.

Gayle, who is captain of the regional West Indies team, is expected to return to Caribbean for a conditioning camp beginning on May 17, ahead of a three-Test and five-ODI series against Australia, which starts on May 22.

However, Kolkata coach John Buchanan, whose side plays Mumbai Indians at their home ground later, has not completely ruled out the Jamaican.

“He has been recovering fast, but we are still unsure of his availability,” the Australian said.