Legendary West Indies all-rounder Garry Sobers' death has left the cricket world in mourning, with tributes pouring in from players across generations. Former India captain Virat Kohli also paid his respects to the West Indies legend, remembering his immense contribution to the game.
Sobers passed away at the age of 89 at his home in Barbados, just two weeks before his 90th birthday. He, known as one of cricket's greatest all-rounders, represented the West Indies cricket team between 1954 and 1974. The all-rounder scored 8,032 runs and took 235 wickets in 93 Test matches.
Cricket Has Lost One Of Its Greatest - Virat Kohli Pays Tribute to Garry Sobers
Virat Kohli paid tribute to Sir Garry Sobers with a heartfelt message on X following the legendary all-rounder's passing. The former India captain hailed Sobers as one of cricket's greatest players and said his remarkable legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
"Cricket has lost one of its greatest. Rest in peace, Sir Garfield Sobers. Your legacy will inspire generations."
Cricket has lost one of its greatest. Rest in peace, Sir Garfield Sobers. Your legacy will inspire generations.
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 18, 2026
Sobers, born on July 28, 1936, in St Michael, Barbados, overcame personal tragedy at a young age after losing his father during World War II. He was raised by his mother, Thelma, and often credited her strength and sacrifices for giving him a loving upbringing.
Sir Garry Sobers' Remarkable Records and Achievements
Garry Sobers is one of the greatest Test careers in cricket history. He scored 8,032 runs in 93 Tests at an average of 57.78, including 26 centuries and 30 half-centuries, while also taking 235 wickets and completing 109 catches.
One of Sobers' best moments came in 1958 when he smashed an unbeaten 365 against Pakistan, a new world record for the highest individual Test score. The record remained unbeaten for 36 years before fellow West Indian Brian Lara surpassed it in 1994.
Sobers also made history in 1968 by becoming the first cricketer to hit six sixes in a single over in first-class cricket. Playing for Nottinghamshire against Glamorgan, he struck Malcolm Nash for 36 runs in an over, 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 more than 28,000 runs and took over 1,000 wickets in 383 first-class matches.
How Sir Garry Sobers Changed Cricket Forever
Sobers was regarded as the complete all-rounder because of 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 earned him some of cricket's highest honours. Sobers was knighted in 1975 for his services to the sport, later entered the ICC Hall of Fame, and was named one of Wisden's Cricketers of the Century, second only to Sir Donald Bradman.
Sobers' influence continues to shape world cricket long after his retirement. The ICC's top individual honour, the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy, is named after him and is awarded annually to the world's best men's international cricketer.
