The cricket world is mourning the demise of great West Indies all-rounder Gary Sobers and players from different generations are paying tribute to him. Former India captain Virat Kohli also paid his respects to the legendary West Indies player, remembering his immense contribution to the game.
Sobers died at his home in Barbados at the age of 89.Just two weeks before his 90th birthday. Known as one of cricket’s greatest all-rounders, he represented the West Indies cricket team between 1954 and 1974. This all-rounder scored 8,032 runs in 93 Test matches and took 235 wickets.
Cricket lost its greatest player – Virat Kohli pays tribute to Gary Sobers
Virat Kohli paid tribute to Sir Gary Sobers with a heartfelt message on Twitter following the demise of the great all-rounder. The former India captain described Sobers as one of cricket’s greatest players and said his remarkable legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
“Cricket has lost one of its greatest players. May your soul rest in peace, Sir Garfield Sobers. Your legacy will inspire generations.”
Cricket has lost one of its greatest players. Rest in peace, Sir Garfield Sobers. Your legacy will inspire generations.
– Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 18, 2026
Born in St. Michael, Barbados on July 28, 1936, Sobers overcame personal tragedy at an early age, losing his father during World War II. He was raised by his mother, Thelma, and she often credited her strength and sacrifice for giving him a loving upbringing.
Notable records and achievements of Sir Gary Sobers
Gary Sobers has one of the greatest Test careers in cricket history. He scored 8,032 runs in 93 Test matches at an average of 57.78, including 26 centuries and 30 half-centuries, while also taking 235 wickets and taking 109 catches.
One of Sobers’ best moments came in 1958 when he scored 365 not out against Pakistan, a new world record for the highest individual Test score. This record remained unbeaten for 36 years, but was surpassed by fellow West Indian Brian Lara in 1994.
Sobers also created history by becoming the first cricketer to hit six sixes in a single over in first-class cricket in 1968. Playing for Nottinghamshire against Glamorgan, he scored 36 runs in one over from Malcolm Nash, one of cricket’s most iconic and unforgettable achievements.
Before retiring from first-class cricket, Sobers represented the West Indies, Barbados, Nottinghamshire and South Australia. He scored over 28,000 runs and took over 1,000 wickets in 383 first-class matches.
How Sir Gary Sobers changed cricket forever
Sobers was considered a complete all-rounder due to his extraordinary versatility. He could bowl left-arm fast-medium, orthodox spin and wrist spin. The all-rounder was a rare match-winner in every department. He also captained the West Indies in 39 test matches.
His achievements have earned him some of cricket’s highest honours. Sobers was knighted in 1975 for his services to the game, was later inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, and was named one of Wisden’s cricketers of the century, succeeding Sir Donald Bradman.
Sobers’ influence continues to shape world cricket even after his retirement. The ICC’s highest individual honour, the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy, is named after him and is awarded annually to the world’s best men’s international cricketer.
