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Gayle praises ACT paceman

06 Feb, 2010 10:26 AM
Canberra fast bowler Ben Oakley received a glowing endorsement from West Indies captain Chris Gayle after Thursday's Prime Minister's XI fixture at Manuka Oval.

After bludgeoning 146 in just 89 balls, the big-hitting Jamaican spoke highly of Oakley's performance who was the pick of a helpless PM's XI fast-bowling attack.

Gayle's innings slowed significantly when the Wests-UC left-armer was introduced, and the visiting captain was surprised to hear that Oakley was not contracted to a state association.

''He bowled well, honestly he bowled well, he's a local guy? He deserves one [a state contract],'' Gayle said.

The Canberra quick finished with 1-56 off nine overs, including the wicket of Dwayne Smith for 19.

Hardly economical but compared to first-class bowlers James Pattinson (0-91 off nine overs), Peter George (0-74 off six) and John Hastings (0-55 off seven), Oakley's figures looked fairly reasonable.

It was the continuation of a very productive summer for the 27-year-old who's been in damaging form for both Wests and the ACT Comets. He has taken 34 wickets in all competitions at club level this season, and a further 21 for the Comets.

Oakley was happy with his performance against the West Indies two days ago, but played down talk of a potential move into state cricket.

''If something comes my way it's all well and good, it's nice to be placed on a big stage like this, and for me it's the biggest stage I've ever played on, but I can't plan on anything like that,'' Oakley said.

For more, pick up a copy of today's Canberra Times

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Impressed: ACT fast bowler Ben Oakley lets fly in the PM's XI at Manuka Oval on Thursday with West Indies skipper Chris Gayle backing up. Gayle said Oakley should have a state contract.
Impressed: ACT fast bowler Ben Oakley lets fly in the PM's XI at Manuka Oval on Thursday with West Indies skipper Chris Gayle backing up. Gayle said Oakley should have a state contract.

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