Sir Garry Sobers, one of the greatest cricketers in history, has died at the age of 89.
The West Indies legend is widely regarded as the finest all rounder the game has ever produced. His skill with both bat and ball, along with his brilliance in the field, made him one of cricket’s most complete players.
Sobers enjoyed a remarkable career that lasted more than two decades. He became famous around the world for his ability to change a match in every department of the game.
One of his most famous moments came in 1968 at St Helen’s ground in Swansea. Playing for Nottinghamshire against Glamorgan, he became the first batter to hit six sixes in a single over in first class cricket. The achievement remains one of the sport’s most celebrated records.
Former Australia captain Richie Benaud once called Sobers “the greatest all round cricketer the world has seen.” He praised Sobers as a brilliant batter, an outstanding close fielder and a bowler who could succeed with pace, left arm spin and wrist spin.
Sobers began his first class career for Barbados in 1953 when he was only 16. His talent quickly caught the attention of selectors. He made his Test debut for West Indies the following year.
He announced himself on the world stage in 1958 against Pakistan. Sobers scored his first Test century and finished unbeaten on 365. It became the highest individual score in Test cricket at the time. The record stood for 36 years before fellow West Indian Brian Lara broke it in 1994.
Sobers retired from international cricket in 1974 at the age of 38. Many felt he stepped away earlier than expected. Wisden later said the demands of modern travel and his ability to contribute in every part of the game placed a heavy burden on him throughout his career.
By the time he retired, Sobers had played 93 Test matches. He scored 8,032 runs at an average of 57.78 and took 235 wickets at 34.03. He still owns one of the highest batting averages among players who have scored more than 5,000 Test runs.
His first class record was just as impressive. In 383 matches, he scored more than 28,000 runs and claimed more than 1,000 wickets. He also played county cricket for Nottinghamshire and represented South Australia in Australia.
Sobers received a knighthood in 1975 for his services to cricket.
His achievements, records and style of play inspired generations of cricketers. Even decades after his retirement, many continued to regard him as the greatest all rounder the game has ever seen.
Cricket has lost one of its true icons, but Sir Garry Sobers’ legacy will remain part of the sport forever.
