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The Melbourne Renegades have issued their star opening batsman Chris Gayle with a $10,000 fine for comments he made to Network Ten Big Bash reporter Mel McLaughlin.
While Gayle claimed his comments – complimenting McLaughlin’s eyes and asking her to join him for a drink, before telling her “don’t blush baby” – were a “simple joke”, the Big Bash League sideline commentator was said to have been left “embarrassed, angry and upset” by Gayle’s inappropriate remarks.
“Chris’s comments were completely inappropriate and disrespectful. There is simply no place for these type of comments at the Melbourne Renegades,” Renegades CEO Stuart Coventry said in a statement.
“The club would like to extend a formal apology to Mel McLaughlin. Mel is an outstanding sports presenter. 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. We would also like to formally apologise to our members, supporters and the wider public for offence caused. The club is based on values of respect towards every member of the community.
“As a result of his comments, the Renegades have fined Chris $10,000 for inappropriate conduct. The club will subsequently donate this amount to the McGrath Foundation in recognition of Jane McGrath day today.”
Gayle is free to play the Renegades’ next match – the Melbourne Derby against crosstown rivals the Stars, on January 9.
Often off-field behaviour being dealt with via fines rather than match suspensions are criticised, and for a man said to make in excess of $7 million a year, the fine – which Cricket Australia have described as “giant” – is a drop in the ocean.
But given the former West Indies Test captain has foregone representing his national team in favour of chasing T20 dollars around the world, perhaps money will talk to Gayle about the way to talk to people.
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