West Indian batsman Chris Gayle will be happy to play second fiddle to fellow opener Reeza Hendricks, come the Jozi Stars’ Mzansi Super League fixture against the Cape Town Blitz at Newlands on Tuesday.

Gayle has returned to South Africa after a stint in Sharjah’s T10 League – and will likely open the batting alongside Hendricks in Cape Town.

The Proteas star is enjoying a superb stretch of form, having hit consecutive centuries against the Durban Heat at the Wanderers and the Nelson Mandela Bay Giants at St George’s Park.

‘I’d like to see Hendricks make it three in a row – that would be nice to see. I think he also knows the Newlands conditions well,’ said Gayle.

‘You guys keep mentioning my name, but it is Hendricks that you should be wary of. With his form, it takes some pressure off me. If given a chance to play in the match, I am looking forward to opening the batting with him and to hopefully have a good start for the team.

‘Reeza is a top international player, who has proved that in the last two matches. He has scored back-to-back tons that have helped in putting us in a winning position as team. He has been brilliant and hopefully he can carry on.’

The Stars currently occupy third position in the tournament’s six-team standings after three victories in six attempts. The Blitz are in first place and the Giants second.

‘It is good to be back for Stars, who are peaking at the right time and look at getting a good win under our belt against the top guns. Hopefully, we can continue our winning ways,’ added Gayle.

Photo: Gallo