The cricket world came together on Saturday to honour Sir Garfield Sobers, one of the game’s greatest legends, following his death at the age of 89. Tributes poured in from former and current cricketers, with Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, Kapil Dev, and Mohammed Azharuddin remembering the West Indies icon for his extraordinary career and lasting influence on the sport.

Sobers represented the West Indies from 1954 to 1974 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers in history. Many consider him the finest all-rounder the game has ever produced because of his remarkable ability with both bat and ball, along with his outstanding fielding.

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Kapil Dev calls Sobers one of cricket’s finest

India’s 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev described Sobers as one of the greatest players the sport has ever seen.

Speaking to PTI, Kapil said, “Anyone who knows about cricket has to know about him, he is one of the finest cricketers ever to be born in this World. The way he played his cricket, people like me got inspired, yes it is a sad day, he is no more, but he has given us so much cricket and his talent and his ability which we can follow through our lives.”

Sachin Tendulkar remembers special moments with Sobers

Sachin Tendulkar also shared an emotional message, recalling several memorable interactions with Sobers over the years.

“It’s incredibly tough to process that Sir Garry is gone. I’ve been looking back at the memories we shared over the years, from him handing me the Player of the Tournament trophy at the 2003 World Cup, to his warm words when he felicitated me for the century milestone. He was always so exceptionally gracious,” Tendulkar posted on X.

The batting great also reflected on their final meeting, saying it had become an unforgettable memory. “My mind keeps going back to when we caught up in London a few years ago. We were just sitting and chatting about the game, and it hits me so hard right now that it was the last time we’d ever meet,” Sachin posted. 

“He truly was the ‘One and Only’. Going to miss him immensely. Rest in peace, Sir Garry,” the Master Blaster concluded.

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Virat Kohli pays emotional tribute

Former India captain Virat Kohli was among the first to react to the news, sharing a heartfelt message on social media.

“Cricket has lost one of its greatest. Rest in peace, Sir Garfield Sobers. Your legacy will inspire generations,’ Kohli posted on X.

Kohli’s tribute reflected the admiration that players across generations have held for the West Indies legend, whose achievements continue to shape the sport.

Mohammed Azharuddin offers condolences

Former India captain Mohammed Azharuddin also expressed his grief and extended condolences to Sobers’ family and the global cricket community. “Cricket has lost one of its greatest ever icons, ” Azharuddin said. 

He added, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Sir Garfield Sobers, one of the greatest cricketers to have ever graced the game. His unmatched brilliance as an all-rounder, remarkable sportsmanship, and enduring legacy will continue to inspire generations of cricketers around the world.”

“My heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and the global cricket fraternity. Rest in peace Gary Sobers. Your legacy will live on forever,” Azharuddin added. 

A career that changed cricket forever

Sir Garfield Sobers built a legacy that few cricketers have matched. A naturally gifted left-handed batter, he was equally effective with the ball, capable of delivering left-arm spin as well as fast-medium pace depending on the team’s needs.

His impact extended beyond batting and bowling. Sobers was also an exceptional fielder, excelling both in close-catching positions and in the outfield.

His versatility, consistency and influence made him one of cricket’s most complete players. The tributes from some of India’s biggest cricketing names underline the respect he commanded across generations. Even decades after his retirement, Sir Garfield Sobers remains a benchmark for excellence and one of the sport’s most celebrated figures.

FAQs

How did Virat Kohli react to Sir Garfield Sobers’ death?

Virat Kohli paid tribute on social media, calling Sir Garfield Sobers one of cricket’s greatest and saying his legacy will inspire generations.

Why is Sir Garfield Sobers regarded as a cricket legend?

Sir Garfield Sobers is widely considered one of the greatest cricketers and the finest all-rounders in history, thanks to his excellence in batting, bowling and fielding.