Gayle heads home, doubtful for first Test

West Indies captain Chris Gayle is doubtful for the first Test against Australia starting November 26 after he suddenly left for Jamaica on Wednesday to be with his ailing mother.

The West Indies Cricket Board said the left-hander was granted time off to be with his mother who suddenly fell ill and was admitted in a hospital in Jamaica.

Gayle will miss the four-day tour match against Queensland starting on Wednesday, West Indies' only practice game before the three match Test series.

Vice captain Denesh Ramdin will lead West Indies in Gayle's absence.

"Gayle will leave from Brisbane this afternoon and will miss the four-day first-class match against Queensland Bulls at the Allan Border Field, which starts," Cricket Australia said in a statement on behalf of WICB.

West Indies manager Joel Garner said they were hopeful about Gayle's return before the opening Test.

"The management and players in the team as well as the WICB are with Chris and his family at this time. We also want to wish his mother a speedy recovery," Garner said.