Kohli pays tribute to West Indies legend Sir Garfield Sobers following his death
Virat Kohli has joined global figures in mourning Sir Garfield Sobers, who played 93 Tests for the West Indies between 1954 and 1974.
Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has paid tribute to West Indies legend Sir Garfield Sobers following his death. Kohli posted on X, stating that cricket had lost one of its greatest players and that Sobers' legacy would inspire future generations. Sobers, who played 93 Test matches for the West Indies between 1954 and 1974, was renowned as one of the finest all-rounders in the sport's history.
Kohli took to the platform to express his condolences, writing: "Cricket has lost one of its greatest. Rest in peace, Sir Garfield Sobers. Your legacy will inspire generations." The message underscores the high regard in which Sobers is held by current stars of the game, marking a significant moment of reflection within the international cricketing community.
Sobers represented the West Indies in 93 Test matches over two decades, scoring 8,032 runs at an average of 57.78, including 26 centuries, and taking 235 wickets. He was known as a left-handed batter and a left-arm bowler capable of seam, orthodox spin, and wrist spin, widely regarded as one of the finest all-rounders in cricket history.
One of his most memorable achievements came in 1958 when he scored an unbeaten 365 against Pakistan. It was then the highest individual score in Test cricket, a record that remained unbeaten for 36 years. Sobers also created history in county cricket in 1968 while playing for Nottinghamshire, becoming the first player to hit six sixes in a single over in first-class cricket.
He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1975 for his services to cricket. In 2000, he was named one of Wisden's Five Cricketers of the 20th Century. His name also lives on through the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy, the ICC's annual award presented to the outstanding men's international cricketer across all formats.
Sobers' death marks the end of one of cricket's most celebrated careers, with tributes continuing to pour in from across the sporting world. The confirmation of his passing has prompted a wave of remembrance from players and administrators alike, highlighting the profound influence he exerted on the game.
