Chris Gayle is pursuing a lawsuit against Fairfax media for defamatory statements alleging that Gayle dropped his towel and exposed himself to a reporter. In the wake of Chris Gayle flirting with reporter Mel McLaughlin on air, another allegation came to light against the cricketer by Fairfax Media. Citing a reporter who did not wish to be named, Fairfax Media published a report stating that Gayle indecently exposed himself to a reporter during the World Cup in Sydney in 2015.
Chris Gayle has issued a statement stating that he's engaged the services of media lawyer Mark O'Brien and he will “immediately commence defamation proceedings against Fairfax Media”.
The statement read “Cricketer Chris Gayle has strongly denied allegations first published by Fairfax Media that he indecently exposed himself to a woman during last year’s World Cup in Sydney."
“Despite such denial, Fairfax Media continues to publish the false and defamatory allegations which have received widespread republication in media throughout the world.” Fairfax Media cited an anonymous woman who wasn't comfortable with revealing her name. This allegation has reportedly hurt Gayle's chances of returning to play in the Big Bash League.
The allegation gained footing because of Gayle's on air flirting with Mel McLaughlin. Stuart Coventry, Renegades chief executive described McLaughlin's part in the matter as “opportunistic”. His employer Tony Donemaide, boss of Cricket Victoria dismissed his stand saying “We certainly don’t condone the reported comments attributed to Stuart this morning and we’re looking into it further."
“Cricket Victoria are committed to demonstrating that our sport respects girls and women and were working incredibly hard to ensure that is the case.” For her part, Mel dismissed the affair and wanted to move on. She said “It was certainly unexpected and to be honest, it’s obviously just a little bit disappointing because he’d done so well out there with the bat. I would have much preferred to be obviously talking about that instead.”
“I’ve always felt respect on the sidelines. And I know that attitudes have completely changed. There’s a certain stigma that people like to talk about with women in sport. I haven’t felt that. I love my job.”
McLaughlin said she's accepted Gayle's apology, adding “I just want to move on.” But Fairfax Media facing a lawsuit will probably drag this matter out further.
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