Chris Gayle has become the first batsman to reach 1,000 T20 sixes.
The West Indian star passed the milestone as he bludgeoned a 63-ball 99 for Kings XI Punjab against Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League.
KXIP eventually slipped to defeat in Abu Dhabi but the 41-year-old was in fine form to smash eight sixes in his knock.
He fell just short of a 23rd T20 ton when being bowled by Jofra Archer the very next ball after hitting his 1,001st six.
Speaking after the match, Gayle said: “To the guys I promised a century, I missed out, but in my mind it's a century! It was a good knock.
“Getting out on 99 was unfortunate. I have been there and done that already, but these things happen.
“I have to give thanks that I am still hitting it well at the age of 41. The dedication and hard work has paid off over the years
“I'm still feeling good. It's all about the mental aspect of my game, I think that's what's keeping me going.
“I am still enjoying my cricket the same way and I still want to do well. I'd love an IPL trophy under my belt.”
Despite the defeat to the Royals, KXIP are well in the hunt for a playoff place after Gayle’s return from injury kick-started a turn in fortune for the franchise.
Gayle Fined for Throwing Bat
Jamaican Gayle is now more than 300 T20 sixes ahead of second-placed Kiron Pollard. His West Indian compatriot has 690 sixes to date. Third-placed Brendon McCullum managed 485.
However, the milestone game against Rajasthan also saw Gayle pick up a fine after his dismissal on 99.
He has since been fined 10 percent of his match fee for breaching the IPL’s Code of Conduct after throwing his bat. He threw it away in frustration after being bowled in the final over.
Kings XI Punjab will now take on Chennai Super Kings on Sunday as they look to secure a spot in the top four.
