GAYLE

JAIPUR, India (CMC):

AGGRESSIVE WEST Indies batsman Chris Gayle said yesterday he was pleased with the developments in his batting, following his 14th one-day international (ODI) century against England last Saturday.

The 27-year-old Gayle struck 101 in a losing cause as the West Indies went down by three wickets in their final preliminary game of the Champions Trophy.

"The hundred was very pleasing. Whenever I get a start I try to bat on as long as possible and carry right through if I have to," Gayle said.

"The support from (Dwayne) Bravo as well was very important because it took a lot of pressure off of me. Hopefully we can transform that form in this game (tomorrow against South Africa) as well."

He added: "I made some adjustments out in the middle, and it is working for me. There is a lot of difference in my batting now. I am just trying to play straight.

Looking forward to semi-final

"When I get a start, I try to capitalise on it and not give it away. I am looking forward to the semi-final and hopefully we can transfer that form to this game as well."

In addition to his batting, Gayle has provided a solid bowling option for the West Indies.

Sending down his stingy off-spin, Gayle captured three for 31 against England, following up his one for 39 in the team's 10-run victory over world champions Australia.

He admitted, however, that bowling was not his priority.

"I have not been paying any attention to my bowling really. I have always been focused on my batting," he said. "I am just a bowler who can come and just get the job done at times. I try to pay more attention to my batting."