Sir Gary Sobers, Iconic All‑Rounder of West Indies Cricket, Dead at 89

New Delhi, July 17 – Sir Gary Sobers, widely regarded as one of cricket’s greatest all‑rounders, has died at the age of 89 in his Barbadian home.

West Indies Cricket released a heartfelt statement, calling his departure the close of a magnificent innings and affirming that Sobers will live on in the hearts of fans forever.

Born on July 28, 1936, in Bridgetown, Sobers debuted in Test cricket in 1954 against England at Kingston. He wielded a left‑handed bat and delivered left‑arm orthodox spin, playing a pivotal role for West Indies until 1974.

In his 93‑Test career he compiled 8,032 runs, including 26 centuries and 30 half‑centuries, with a highest unbeaten 365 against Pakistan that shattered Len Hutton’s record. He also captured 235 wickets and featured in a single One Day International, claiming one wicket.

Sobers started as a bowler, notching his first Test hundred at 23. His 365‑run marathon at Sabina Park set a world record that stood until Brian Lara’s 375 in 1994. While playing for Nottinghamshire, he became the first cricketer to hit six sixes in a single over.

The ICC’s top annual men’s cricket honor, the Sir Garfield Sobers Award, bears his name, celebrating the sport’s finest all‑round performer. He was knighted in 1975 in recognition of his services to cricket.