Chris Gayle to sue Fairfax Media for defamation
What's the story
Chris Gayle has said he will sue Fairfax Media for defamation after they published a story alleging that he exposed himself to a woman during a tournament last year. He stated that he has hired media lawyer Mark O'Brien, and would "immediately commence defamation proceedings against Fairfax Media". The allegation has reportedly damaged Gayle's chances of playing in the Big-bash league ever again
4 Jan 2016
Chris Gayle comments during interview spark controversy
West Indian cricketer Chris Gayle's comments during a Big Bash League (BBL) post-innings interview with Network Ten journalist Mel McLaughlin drew sharp criticism. "Hopefully we can win this game and we can have a drink after. Don't blush, baby," Gayle was heard telling the journalist on air. Gayle was slammed for making "inappropriate" comments and further action was promised against the superstar cricketer.
Do you know?
Network Ten comes under fire for tweet
Network Ten came under sharp criticism following a tweet from its Ten Sports account which described Chris Gayle's attempt to flirt with Mel McLaughlin as "smooth". The tweet was deleted soon after.
Reaction
Cricket authorities condemn Gayle's behaviour
Big Bash League chief Anthony Everard described Gayle's comments as "disrespectful and simply inappropriate". Network Ten head of sports David Barham said that the network was "deeply offended" and would be "seeking an apology". Gayle's team-mate and Melbourne Renegades captain Aaron Finch said: "we don't condone it". Renegades' Chief Executive Stuart Coventry reacted, saying, "There's just no place for that sort of behaviour."
Criticism
Fox Sports reporter calls Gayle a 'creep'
Fox Sports and ABC reporter Neroli Meadows responded to Gayle's comment by saying, "He does this constantly, he's a creep, he has creepy behaviour." ESPC CricInfo reporter Melinda Farrell said, "She [Mel McLaughlin] is an absolute A-grade journalist and broadcaster and it's horrible to see her put in that position." The Canberra Times reporter Fleta Page tweeted, "******** is his [Gayle's] default mode."
Justification
Chris Gayle says his comment was a joke
"There wasn't anything at all meant to be disrespectful to Mel, or offensive. If she felt that way, then I am really sorry for that. There wasn't any harm meant. It was a simple joke," said Gayle when he arrived at Melbourne airport. "In entertainment, things get out of proportion," Gayle added before cutting the press conference short, for which he again faced criticism.
Do you know?
History repeating itself?
A similar incident had occurred in the 2014 Caribbean Premier League, when Gayle was asked by a female reporter how the pitch felt. Gayle replied, saying, "Well I haven't touched yours yet, so I don't know how it feels."
5 Jan 2016
Chris Gayle fined $10,000 for comments
Chris Gayle's team, the Melbourne Renegades, fined the superstar cricketer $10,000 following his controversial sideline interview with Network Ten reporter Mel McLaughlin. Renegades CEO Stuart Coventry said that the money would be donated to charity. Cricket Australia head James Sutherland added, "Those sorts of comments border on harassment...I'm pleased to see the public response to say these comments are not acceptable."
6 Jan 2015
Chris Gayle exposes himself to woman
An unidentified woman spoke to Australia's Fairfax Media, alleging that Chris Gayle exposed himself to her while she was in the team dressing room during a tournament last year. The woman, who worked with the teams stated that she went to the dressing room to eat, when Gayle exposed his genitals to her. The allegations dampen Gayle's chances of playing the Big-bash tournament again.