When you are starting, it’s crucial to get the basics right, and then you can build on that base. Don’t try to bat like Chris Gayle.” This statement from the dazzling West Indian himself came as gushing water in the desert for local coaches in Mumbai. For, now they can convey Gayle’s message to those young cricketers in a more emphatic fashion.

Don’t Ape Gayle: A young batsman plays an attacking shot at the Azad Maidan. Pic/Getty Images.