CHENNAI, India, May 27 (CMC):

Talismanic West Indies batsman Chris Gayle smashed Royal Challengers Bangalore into the final of the Indian Premier League, with another high-powered half-century in the second qualifying final yesterday.

The powerful left-hander hammered a stroke-filled 89 at the top of the order as Bangalore thrashed Kieron Pollard's Mumbai Indians by 43 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, to book a spot in today's grand final against Chennai Super Kings.

Gayle, who controversially missed the recent Test and one-day series against Pakistan because of his IPL commitments, was in terrific form, belting nine fours and five sixes off a mere 47 balls.

His fireworks propelled Bangalore to 185 for four off their allotted 20 overs and Mumbai fell short in reply, managing just 142 for eight, with Pollard failing with three.

With a place in the final at stake, Gayle was at his brilliant best as he posted 113 for the opening stand with Mayank Agarwal, who got 41 from 31 balls.

Striking the ball with his customary power, the Jamaican made his intentions clear from early, smashing three fours and a six off the opening over from fast bowler Abu Ahmed which cost 27 runs.

He continued to pummel the Mumbai bowling and seemed set for his third century for the IPL season when he holed out to James Franklin at long on off seamer Munaf Patel (2-27) in the 15th over.

Mumbai then got a top score of 40 from Sachin Tendulkar but their batting failed to fire as left-arm spinner Daniel Vettori snatched three for 29 to lead Bangalore's attack.

Pollard struggled to get the ball away in his innings before clubbing his sixth delivery to long off where he was caught, giving Vettori his third wicket.