Gayle fined by Renegades for reporter comments

Omnisports

January 5, 2016 11:31 AM

The Melbourne Renegades have fined Chris Gayle $10,000 for inappropriate comments made to a female reporter during an on-air interview.

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The Melbourne Renegades have fined Chris Gayle $10,000 for inappropriate comments made to a female reporter during an on-air interview on Monday.

Gayle sparked widespread criticism after he propositioned Channel 10 reporter Mel McLaughlin during the Renegades' six-wicket Big Bash League win over the Hobart Hurricanes.

The laidback West Indian said: "Hopefully we can win this game and you and I can have a drink after. Don't blush, baby."

Gayle publicly apologised in Melbourne on Tuesday, insisting it was a "simple joke" but that did not spare him from being sanctioned, with the money to be donated to the McGrath Foundation.

"Chris' comments were completely inappropriate and disrespectful. There is simply no place for these types of comments at the Melbourne Renegades," Renegades chief executive Stuart Coventry said via a statement.

"The club would like to extend a formal apology to Mel McLaughlin. Mel is an outstanding sports presenter. We think of her very highly and the club and players will ensure we work with her in a professional and respectful manner in future.

"We've had several discussions with Chris over the past day and he has acknowledged that his comments were out of line. We would also like to formally apologise to our members, supporters and the wider public for offence caused. The club is based on values of respect towards every member of the community."

Omnisports