Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 18: The global cricket fraternity mourned the passing of West Indies legend Sir Garfield Sobers, who died at the age of 89 in Barbados, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from former and current players celebrating the life and legacy of one of the sport's greatest icons.
Leading the tributes, batting legend Sachin Tendulkar recalled his cherished memories with Sobers, reflecting on the deep respect and affection they shared over the years.
In a post on X, Tendulkar said it was difficult to come to terms with Sobers' passing, remembering how the West Indies great presented him with the Player of the Tournament award after the 2003 ODI World Cup and later honoured him when he became the first cricketer to score 100 international centuries.
Tendulkar also fondly remembered their last meeting in London, where the two spent time discussing cricket, describing Sobers as a gracious and humble personality. Calling him the "One and Only," Tendulkar said the cricketing world would miss him immensely.
Former India captain Virat Kohli also expressed his grief, describing Sobers as one of the finest cricketers the game has ever produced. He said Sobers' extraordinary legacy would continue to inspire generations of players around the world.
Former India women's captain Mithali Raj paid her respects, calling Sobers a true legend whose contribution to cricket would never be forgotten. She extended her condolences to his family and the global cricket community.
India all-rounder Shardul Thakur revealed that only days earlier he had spoken with batting great Sunil Gavaskar, who had praised Sobers' immense influence on the game. Thakur remembered Sobers as the first cricketer to hit six sixes in an over in first-class cricket and said his passing marked the end of an unforgettable era.
Former Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews described Sobers as the benchmark for cricketing greatness, saying his brilliance, humility and achievements transcended statistics and left an enduring impact on generations of players.
Widely acknowledged as the greatest all-rounder in cricket history, Sir Garfield Sobers revolutionised the sport with his exceptional abilities as a batter, bowler and fielder. His remarkable career included a then world-record unbeaten 365 in Test cricket, becoming the first player to strike six sixes in a single over in first-class cricket, and setting standards of all-round excellence that remain unmatched.
Sobers' death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in cricket history, but his achievements and influence are expected to inspire players and fans for generations to come.