New Delhi, December 11 (HS). The Legends Pro T20 League has announced its player lineup for the debut season, confirming the participation of star cricketers Chris Gayle, Jacques Kallis, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu and Stuart Binny.

In a statement issued by the organisers, Chris Gayle said, “Some of my best cricketing memories are connected with the players who will feature in this league. I’ve played against Kallis when getting past him felt almost impossible. I’ve discussed batting rhythm with Uthappa, heard countless jokes from Rayudu, and when names like Dhawan or Watson come up, the feeling only gets stronger. Coming together again—the same humour, the same competition, the same respect—brings everything back. The Legends Pro T20 League is giving us that opportunity.”

Jacques Kallis expressed excitement about returning to the field, saying, “When you stay away from the game for a while, you realise how much you miss the feel of the bat in your hand. I’m genuinely excited—finding that easy rhythm again, the timing, feeling like a player. With Michael Clarke coming in as league commissioner, there’s fresh energy. His cricketing mind has always been sharp, and his role brings new professionalism and vision to the setup. It makes the return even more thrilling.”

Robin Uthappa shared nostalgic memories, saying, “I’ve faced Rayudu as an opponent and later shared the dressing room with him—his intensity always stood out. I’ve had countless discussions with Dinesh Karthik on finishing, and our Under-19 bond gives us a natural rhythm. Shaun Marsh always made batting look effortless. Reliving all this—without franchise pressure—is something I’m really looking forward to. It’s like picking up old cricketing friendships right where we left off.”

Ambati Rayudu spoke of relationships that go beyond formats and seasons. “When you see players around you—those you competed against and those you won titles with—you remember why you love this game. I’ve had tough contests with Binny, long net sessions with Uthappa, unforgettable battles with Gayle and great moments with Shane Watson. And when players like Amit Mishra or Vinay Kumar walk in, it instantly brings back old days. I couldn’t let go of the chance to relive even a small part of that world,” he said.

Stuart Binny added, “What excites me is not just cricket but the entire group. We’ve played all over the world and shared moments far beyond scorecards. Kallis’ tips on balance at the crease, Gayle’s stories that make everyone laugh, Monty Panesar’s sudden debates—this is the world we come from. Getting a chance to return to that atmosphere is truly special.”

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar