New Delhi, July 18: The cricket community is in mourning following the passing of West Indies legend Sir Garfield Sobers at the age of 89 in Barbados. Tributes have poured in from around the globe, with former and current cricketers reflecting on Sobers’ unparalleled contributions to the sport. Notable figures like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli have shared heartfelt messages in his memory.
Sachin Tendulkar, who shared many memorable moments with Sobers throughout his career, recalled their personal relationship. Reflecting on everything from the 2003 ODI World Cup to their last meeting in London, the Indian batting icon expressed on social media platform X, “It is hard to believe that Sir Gary is no longer with us. I cherish the memories we created over the years, from him presenting me with the ‘Player of the Tournament’ trophy in the 2003 World Cup to his kind words when I reached the milestone of 100 international centuries.”
He continued, “He was always a humble and kind-hearted person. My mind often drifts back to our meeting in London a few years ago, where we simply sat and talked about the game. Now, it deeply resonates with me that it was our last encounter. He was truly exceptional, and he will be greatly missed. May his soul rest in peace, Sir Gary.”
Sobers awarded Tendulkar the ‘Player of the Tournament’ title after India finished as runners-up in the 2003 World Cup. He also honored Tendulkar when he achieved the remarkable feat of 100 international centuries.
Virat Kohli also paid tribute, labeling Sobers as one of cricket’s greatest icons, whose impact will endure long after his passing. On X, he wrote, “Cricket has lost one of its greatest legends. May your soul rest in peace, Sir Garfield Sobers. Your legacy will continue to inspire generations.”
Former Indian captain Mithali Raj expressed her condolences to Sobers’ family and the cricket community, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Sir Garfield Sobers. A true legend whose legacy will inspire generations. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the cricket world. May his soul find peace.”
Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur recalled a recent conversation with Sunil Gavaskar, where the legendary batsman praised Sobers just days before his death. “Just ten days ago, I spoke with Sir Sunil Gavaskar, who mentioned Sir Garfield Sobers and spoke highly of him. It is tragic that we lost him on Friday. May the soul of Sir Garfield Sobers rest in peace, the first person to hit six sixes in an over.”
Former Sri Lankan captain Angelo Mathews described Sobers as a benchmark for excellence in cricket, stating that his influence extended far beyond statistics and records. He wrote, “Sir Garfield Sobers was not only one of cricket’s greatest players but also set the standard for greatness. An icon whose talent, humility, and legacy will continue to inspire generations. Thank you, Sir Gary, for everything you contributed to our beautiful game.”
Regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history, Sobers transformed the game with his extraordinary versatility as a batsman, bowler, and fielder. His legacy includes setting a world record of an unbeaten 365 runs in Test cricket, becoming the first cricketer to hit six sixes in an over in first-class cricket, and inspiring generations with a career that redefined all-round excellence.
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