Batsman Reeza Hendricks will likely open the batting alongside the West Indian big-hitter for the remainder of the Jozi Stars’ Mzansi Super League campaign.

Hendricks struck consecutive centuries in wins over the Durban Heat at the Wanderers and Nelson Mandela Bay Giants at St George’s Park on Friday and Saturday, respectively.

Gayle’s stint with the Kerala Knights in the T10 League in the United Arab Emirates, meanwhile, has ended – and he will soon return to South Africa to resume his time with the Stars.

‘This wicket was more on the slower side than the last match. I am confident, when I go to bat, but Friday night was over and I had to start from the scratch. I am calm, but Chris Gayle is calmer,’ said Hendricks after Sunday’s 108 not out.

Triumphant Stars captain Dane Vilas, too, anticipated the return of Gayle – and praised the performance of fast bowler Kagiso Rabada. The lanky pace ace followed a telling four for 27 against the Heat with a complementary two for eight versus the Giants.

‘I think this is as good as it can get for us. Kagiso got four wickets in the previous match, and he started well here. We are happy with this week. It will be tough to get Chris in the team, as the top order is firing,’ added Vilas.

Photo: Gallo