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Chris Gayle hits first ever World Cup double ton against Zimbabwe

Chris Gayle hits the first ever World Cup double century as the West Indies reach 372-2 in their innings against Pool B opponents Zimbabwe.

Chris Gayle broke numerous records by claiming 215 runs to help the West Indies hit 372-2 in their World Cup Pool B clash against Zimbabwe.

The West Indies opted to bat after winning the toss in Canberra and they began with a wobble when opener Dwayne Smith was bowled out by Tinashe Panyangara for a duck.

With just one run on the board, Gayle and Marlon Samuels were given the task of leading the West Indies' attack and they were able to do so in commanding style.

Gayle stormed to a century and reached 127 runs after 39 overs, but was in danger of being sent back to the pavilion shortly afterwards when he was caught out.

However, it was a no-ball and the 35-year-old pushed on to become the second West Indian to pass 9,000 one-day runs, as well as hit more than 400 international sixes.

Gayle recorded the highest score in World Cup innings by reaching 189 runs, but he was not done there as the batsman went on to hit the first ever World Cup double century.

Samuels was also not to be outdone as he claimed 133 runs off 156 deliveries, but his teammate will take the headlines after hitting 16 sixes and 10 fours.

Gayle's time at the crease eventually came to an end in the 49th over when Hamilton Masakadza delivered, but it was too late to swing the momentum in Zimbabwe's direction as the batsman recorded 215 runs off 147 balls.

Zimbabwe struggled on the field as only two of their seven bowlers picked up a wicket, and Sikandar Raza failed to strike in any of his 10 overs bowled.

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West Indies batsman Andre Russell (L) celebrates after the West Indies won the match by one wicket during the 4th One Day International cricket match on January 25, 2015
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