Indian stars Uthappa, Rayudu and Binny join inaugural edition
PANAJI
The Legends Pro T20 League has received a major boost with cricket legends Chris Gayle and Jacques Kallis officially confirming their participation for the tournament’s debut season in Goa. Their entry, followed by signings of Indian stars Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu and Stuart Binny, has strengthened the league’s positioning as a high-profile reunion of some of cricket’s most influential figures.
Gayle, one of T20 cricket’s most recognisable names, said the tournament would bring back familiar bonds forged over decades. “Some of my best cricket memories involve the guys who will be playing for the league,” Gayle said. “I’ve played against Kallis when getting past him felt impossible, talked batting rhythm with Uthappa, and taken more Rayudu banter than I can count,” he laughed.
“And seeing names like (Shikhar) Dhawan or (Shane) Watson pop up again adds to that feeling. Coming back together brings back the jokes, the competitiveness, the respect. The Legends Pro T20 League is giving us that chance.”
Kallis echoed the sentiment, expressing how much he missed the rhythm of batting and the relationships that define a cricketing life. “When you’ve been away from the game for a while, you realise how much you miss the feel of the bat in your hands,” Kallis said. “I’m genuinely excited to pick it up again — that simple rhythm of hitting balls, finding timing, feeling like a player once more. And seeing Michael Clarke step in as league commissioner adds a fresh energy. He’s always had a sharp cricketing mind, and his new role brings real professionalism and vision to the whole setup. It just makes you look forward even more to getting back out there and enjoying the game with familiar faces.”
Uthappa spoke about reconnecting with teammates and rivals who shaped his cricketing journey. “I’ve faced Rayudu as an opponent and later shared a dressing room with him, and his intensity has always stood out,” Uthappa said.
Rayudu said the familiar faces made the decision easy. “When you look around and see players you’ve fought against and won titles with, it reminds you why you love the sport,” he said. “Reliving even a slice of that was too good to pass up.”
With Gayle and Kallis leading an expanding roster of global and Indian names, the Legends Pro T20 League is shaping into a celebration of cricketing nostalgia and competitive flair ahead of its much-awaited first season.
