It might have seemed like a good idea at the time, but Chris Gayle will be regretting his decision to ask a TV reporter out on a date during a live interview.
The West Indies circketer was speaking to journalist Mel McLaughlin during a Big Bash League match in Hobart on Monday. But instead of discussing the quickfire 41 runs from 15 balls he’d just made for the the Melbourne Renegades, Gayle opted to try and arrange a drink with the reporter after the game.
“To see your eyes for the first time is nice. Hopefully we can have a drink afterwards. Don’t blush baby,” he told her.
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Unfortunately for Gayle, his comments have seen him fined for ‘inappropriate conduct’ after they were widely condemned as sexist.
Gayle will have to pay A$10,000 (£4,900) and, despite apologising, has described the reaction as “out of proportion”.
“There wasn’t anything meant to be disrespectful or offensive to Mel. If she felt that way, I’m really sorry for that.
“It was a simple joke. The game was going on. Entertainment, things get out of proportion but these things happen.”
The Melbourne Renegades’ chief executive Stuart Coventry has also expressed his disappointment at the comments, describing them as “disrespectful”.
“Mel is an outstanding sports presenter,” he explained. “We think of her very highly and the club and players will ensure we work with her in a professional and respectful manner in future.”
“We’ve had several discussions with Chris over the past day and he has acknowledged that his comments were out of line.”
Gayle’s fine will be donated to the McGrath Foundation, a breast cancer charity.
