The twilight of West Indian batsman Chris Gayle’s playing career is being extended through the Mzansi Super League this month.

Gayle, who was recruited as an international marquee player for last year’s inaugural edition, was retained by the Stars.

He struck 17 before being dismissed by fast bowler Dale Steyn in Friday’s defeat by the Cape Town Blitz at the Wanderers in Johannesburg.

Gayle won’t be with the Stars for the entire tournament. He will leave after six fixtures and be replaced by Paksitan all-rounder Shoaib Malik.

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‘I had such a great time last year. I didn’t actually get the performances from a personal point of view and I want to come here and finish off on a high here in South Africa,’ said Gayle, who has played in several domestic T20 competitions around the world, including the Indian Premier League, Big Bash League, Pakistan Super League, Bangladesh Premier League, Global T20 Canada, Caribbean Premier League and others.

‘I’m 40 years old now. I still have a lot of cricket to play, but I’m looking from a life point of view – I’m starting a family, I’m going to venture into new things as well,’ he added.

‘Cricket has played a big part in my life and I’m very thankful for that. But you also need to know when to move on and start a new journey, which I’m looking forward to.’

The hard-hitting Gayle retired from ODI cricket earlier this year.

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