WEB CHUTNEY

West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle, who is playing for the Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League, has come under stern criticism for his comments during an interview with a female TV presenter in his team’s victory over Hobart Hurricanes.

Gayle has drawn criticism after asking a female reporter for a drink before telling her “don’t blush baby” during a live interview, although some have defended the West Indian’s advances.

Whilst being questioned about his 41 run innings, Gayle asked McLaughlin out for a drink. The 36-year-old batsman then awkwardly laughed off the comment and told McLaughlin “don’t blush baby”. McLaughlin replied by telling Gayle “I’m not blushing” before moving the interview back onto cricketing matters.

Gayle says he did not mean to be ‘disrespectful or offensive’ to Channel Ten reporter Mel McLaughlin when he asked her out on air. He issued an apology at Melbourne Airport today and was later fined $10,000 by the Melbourne Renegades. Big Bash League presenter Mel McLaughlin admits disappointment, but accepts Chris Gayle’s apology.