Glowing tributes pour in for legendary Sobers
ST JOHN’S: Tributes poured in for Garry Sobers, widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket, following his death at the age of 89 on Friday. Sobers represented the West Indies in 93 Tests between 1954 and 1974, earning a reputation for his...
Glowing tributes have poured in from across the cricket world after the death of Garry Sobers, the Barbadian great widely regarded as one of the game’s finest all-rounders. He was 89.
According to a monitored public feed, Sobers died on Friday, prompting messages of grief and admiration from current and former players, as well as cricket administrators in several countries.
Cricket West Indies president Kishore Shallow said Sobers would never be forgotten, describing him as a figure whose legacy would remain part of the region’s sporting story. In a statement shared by Cricket West Indies, Shallow offered condolences to Sobers’ family and to the people and government of Barbados.
Cricket West Indies chief executive Chris Dehring said Sobers would remain one of the Caribbean’s greatest ambassadors. He said the former West Indies star’s influence would endure “wherever cricket is played,” and added that Sobers’ spirit would live on through young West Indians who dream of representing the maroon cap with pride.
The three current West Indies captains — Roston Chase, Hayley Matthews and Shai Hope — also paid tribute, remembering Sobers for his brilliance, humility and commitment. In a joint statement, they said his journey from Barbados to becoming the cricketer the world remembers remains one of the sport’s most inspiring stories.
Brian Lara, another West Indies batting icon and former captain, said Sobers’ loss was irreplaceable and sent strength to his family. Geoffrey Boycott, the former England batter, called Sobers a once-in-a-lifetime talent and praised his easygoing nature, generosity and willingness to share advice.
Tributes also came from other leading names in world cricket. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar said it was “probably the saddest day for the game of cricket,” while Sachin Tendulkar described Sobers as “the One and Only” and recalled his grace in personal interactions. Virat Kohli said cricket had lost one of its greatest figures and said Sobers’ legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
Cricket boards in Australia, England, India and Sri Lanka also acknowledged Sobers’ standing in the game. International Cricket Council chairman Jay Shah said Sobers’ achievements and contribution had inspired generations of cricketers around the world.
Sobers represented the West Indies in 93 Tests between 1954 and 1974 and built a reputation for powerful batting, varied bowling and excellent fielding. His death has prompted a wave of reflection on a career that left a lasting mark on the sport.
This report is based on a monitored public feed and is attributed below.
Source: Dawn Sport - https://www.dawn.com/news/2016638/glowing-tributes-pour-in-for-legendary-sobers
