Chris Gayle smashes first century of IPL 2018

West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle on Thursday smashed the first century of Indian Premier League 2018 against Hyderabad at Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali.

Gayle brought his ton in only 58 balls to help Punjab surpass 150 runs and aim for 200 at the end of the 20 overs.

Supported by Karun Nair at the other end, Gayle innings included 11 sixes and one four.

"A lot of people thought that I am old. Nothing to prove though. Wherever I go across the globe, just want to earn some respect. This one is dedicated to my daughter Crisalina though; it's her birthday tomorrow. So, yeah, this is for her. Tomorrow she will turn two and it's her second time in India. We're hoping to have a nice time. I am glad to score my century in just my second game at home, feels really good," he said.

"Fantastic innings and I hope we can defend it. (On his work ethics with KXIP) Viru mentioned two good guys to me - the yoga guy and the massage guy, who help me stay flexible. Hopefully, I'll be able to touch my feet in a week's time," he added.

Nair contributed 31 runs off 21 balls before giving away his wicket to Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

The colossal batsman hit the most belligerent bowling line up in the eleventh season all around the park to bring up hundred.

With this century Gayle brought up his 6th IPL century.

Punjab skipper R Ashwin won the toss and decided to bat first against Hyderabad at Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali on Thursday.

"We are going to bat first. I would like to see them chase down a score. We have got a formidable batting line-up that can take on any bowling attack and we would like them to give a license to go out and express themselves," Ashwin said.

"We had a wonderful win in the last match and we would like to keep the momentum going. We are unchanged for this match," he added.

Aaron Finch, who failed to open his account in both previous matches, made 14 runs off 6 balls to help Gayle set a decent total.