Cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers dies at 89; BCCI, Yuvraj Singh lead tributes

Cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers, regarded as one of the greatest all rounders in the history of the sport, passed away at the age of 89. His son, Daniel, confirmed the news. Sobers breathed his last at his residence in Barbados, just 10 days before his 90th birthday.

Widely recognised for transforming West Indies cricket on the global stage, Sobers enjoyed a remarkable international career that lasted two decades. Between March 1954 and April 1974, he played 93 Test matches, scoring 8,032 runs at an impressive average of 57.78. His record includes 26 centuries and 30 half centuries. As a left arm fast medium bowler, he also picked up 235 Test wickets. He featured in one One Day International and claimed a wicket.

Sobers is also remembered for creating one of cricket's most iconic records. In 1968, while representing Nottinghamshire against Glamorgan in First Class cricket, he became the first batter to hit six sixes in a single over. In recognition of his contribution to the game, the ICC has presented the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy to the Men's Cricketer of the Year every year since 2004.

The cricket fraternity paid tribute to the former West Indies captain soon after the news of his passing emerged.

Former India all rounder Yuvraj Singh shared an emotional note on social media. He wrote, "The first man to hit six sixes in an over, Sir Garfield Sobers showed the world that there were no limits to greatness. It is difficult to put into words what he meant to the world of cricket. He did things on the field that most could only dream of, and he did it with grace, humility and joy. Every generation has looked up to him, and every generation to come will continue to do the same. Rest in peace, Sir. Your legacy is forever. 🙏"

The BCCI also expressed its condolences, stating, "The BCCI mourns the passing of Sir Garfield Sobers, a true icon of the game and one of cricket's greatest ever all rounders. His extraordinary achievements, lasting influence on Caribbean cricket and immeasurable contribution to the global game have left an enduring legacy."

The board also shared a video of Sobers interacting with Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and other Indian players during India's 2024 tour of the West Indies, remembering his lasting impact on generations of cricketers.