JAIPUR, India (CMC):

Aggressive opener, Chris Gayle has come in for high praise from his teammates following his explosive century against South Africa that spurred West Indies into the ICC Champions Trophy final.

The 27-year old Gayle hit an unbeaten 133, his 15th One-Day International century, as West Indies beat South Africa by six wickets in the second semi-final on Thursday.

"He batted extremely well. I hope he keeps on batting the same way. Chris is such a good batter," said Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who shared an 154-run opening stand with Gayle.

"He is one of the guys who you want to bat through the innings because if he bats through you know you can win the game easy."

In Awe

Fast bowler Jerome Taylor said he was in awe as his fellow Jamaican hammered 17 fours and three sixes, in his 135-ball knock.

"It was an absolutely outstanding innings. Chris is a phenomenal batsman and when he bats like he did against South Africa you just have to sit back and be in awe," said Taylor, who has just seven Tests and 22 ODIs under his belt.

Captain Brian Lara, who has in the past identified Gayle as a future leader of the West Indies team, said the player had contributed in every department for the team.

"He's excellent. Chris Gayle has always been our top player with the bat, with the ball, in the field," Lara said.

"He's very chirpy as well and he has a great influence on the guys which is tremendous. You might see him there maybe a bit comical on occasions but he takes his cricket very seriously and in the practice sessions his preparation is great and he's reaping the rewards for it now."

In 150 ODIs, Gayle has accumulated 5539 runs at an average of 40.13.