PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) — Captain Chris Gayle has credited all-rounder Andre Russell as being pivotal to the success of Jamaica Tallawahs in the inaugural Limacol Caribbean Premier League which ended on Saturday in Trinidad.

Russell stroked 33 off 18 balls including five fours and one six and shared in an unbeaten stand of 62 from 34 balls with Gayle as Tallawahs pulled of a seven wicket win over Guyana Amazon Warriors in the finals.

Russell, the leading six-hitter with 16, was also consistent in leading Jamaica to a number of crucial wins in the tournament.

“Russell has been fantastic throughout,” Gayle said.

“He has been working on his striking and he comes through for us almost every time. I really hope he’s in the next West Indies squad.”

Gayle batted throughout the innings to finish unbeaten on 47 off 48 balls with six boundaries to lead his team in their final triumph.

However the opener’s form has not been the best with a series of low scores that prompted speculation about his vision.

Gayle said he was determined to silence his critics and is looking forward to a three-month rest from the game.

“People said my eyesight was gone as well and that I was not seeing the ball so a lot of things have been going on from a personal point of view so I am really happy that it is over now. I am finished with cricket for another three months,” said Gayle.

“I am happy I batted through the innings, and as captain, because this was the most important CPL match we played. I did want to silence my critics and I believe I did!”