Gayle had launched a tirade on the Tallawahs, after being released by them for the 2020 Caribbean Premier League, and Sarwan, the assistant coach of the franchise, had especially come in for criticism, with Gayle labelling Sarwan a “snake”, pointing out to his deceitful and untrustworthy ways.

Gayle had accused Sarwan of being chiefly responsible for his ouster from the franchise, but the latter has now come out and categorically denied any involvement. “I categorically deny any involvement in the decision or the decision-making process, which led to Gayle’s non-selection to represent the Jamaica Tallawahs in the 2020 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) Tournament,” Sarwan was quoted as saying in a Facebook statement by ESPNcricinfo.

“I absolutely reject Gayle’s allegation that I encouraged foreign players to disrespect him,” Sarwan said. “I really do not understand how he came to such a conclusion and this simply is not true.

“My deep concern, is that young and upcoming players who regard Gayle as a role model, may think that this is an acceptable way of addressing problems which may befall them in their careers.”