KINGSTON, Jamaica, – (CMC) – Ace Jamaica and West Indies opening batsman Chris Gayle became emotional as he assisted in unveiling a cricket nursery named in his honour at his more than century-old club, Lucas, on Friday.

The 33-year-old Gayle, who has represented the Preston Road club in East Kingston from a very early age, shed a few tears as he gave a thank you speech in the presence of executive members of the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA), Lucas Club officials, family members, friends and well-wishers.
“I want to thank each and everyone who made this day possible. It really, really means a lot to me,” Gayle said.
“I feel proud and honoured that years after creeping through holes in the (perimeter) wall, running around and learning the game, I am back here, and a nursery is being named after me.”
The nursery, located at the northern end of the venue, is equipped with two concrete practice pitches, and clay pitch, and according to club officials, there are plans to have it continuously upgraded.
“It is good to see someone like Gayle coming back to where it all began,” said Lyndel Wright, the JCA president.
Lucas president, Oneil Cruickshank, and long-standing member Brian Breese, who were instrumental in the nursery coming to fruition, said the occasion was long in coming.
“Lucas is rebuilding and with events like this, the recent unveiling of a bust of George Headley, and general refurbishment activities, it augurs well for the future,” Cruickshank said.
“We also hope that it (the nursery) will be a motivation for young, talented players to train and hone their skills, and who knows, maybe one day we may be able to produce another Chris Gayle,” Cruickshank added.
Gayle, who, along with Wright, unveiled ‘The Chris Gayle Nursery’ signboard, used the occasion to highlight his plans to help the club regain its former glory. He said he plans to donate cricket gear and other equipment, as well as help with renovations, and whenever he is in Jamaica he will participate in various club activities.
“If it was not for Lucas I don’t know where I would be today. Maybe on the streets,” said Gayle, who also participated in a practice net session with several youngsters.
Many great Jamaican and West Indies players have played for Lucas Cricket Club, which was founded in 1895. The greatest of them all is the late George Headley, regarded as one of the best ever West Indies batsmen.