CARIBBEAN ace Chris Gayle is intent on bringing his Calypso magic to New Road -- and keeping Worcestershire's season alive.

The Jamaican all-rounder made an instant impression at County headquarters in the first two days of the Championship fixture against Leicestershire.

After taking two catches and bagging a brace of wickets on the opening day, Gayle then dazzled supporters yesterday with his unique attacking flavour at the crease, slamming 11 boundaries in a 53-ball 51.

The 25-year-old Test star, who joined Worcestershire last week to replace South African Zander de Bruyn, is keen to stack up more runs after a period of inactivity from the game.

"It's nice to come over to Worcestershire and play some cricket," admits Gayle. "I was sitting back home in the West Indies not doing much, for whatever circumstances I found myself in.

"I need to be playing all the time, because I have a love and a passion for the game.

"I want to help the team move upwards from where they are now. I hope I can play my part and the team will benefit."

Like most West Indians, Gayle is naturally laid-back and believes in keeping a smile on his face, no matter how tough it gets in the middle.

He added: "It's good that the guys can have fun on and off the field and enjoy their cricket. I like that when the guys are always smiling.

"It's a good team. I understand that they are a bit down at the moment, but hopefully we can win this match against Leicestershire and look forward to better things."