CPL plans Kensington Oval final tribute to late Sir Garfield Sobers

The Caribbean Premier League is grieving the unexpected death of West Indies cricket icon Sir Garfield Sobers, who passed away on Friday with his 90th birthday little more than a week away.

CPL chief executive Pete Russell issued a tribute casting Sobers among the finest competitors the game has known and a cornerstone of West Indies cricket.

“It is a sad day for our tournament, Caribbean cricket and everyone involved with CPL as we remember Sir Garfield Sobers,” Russell said.

“There are so many ways that we can discuss his greatness as a cricketer, a player who was outstanding in every facet of the game and one who was instrumental in laying the foundations for West Indies cricket to become a true global powerhouse.”

Born in Bridgetown, Barbados, in 1936, Sobers earned a reputation as the finest all-rounder the sport has produced. His passion for the game took hold in childhood, and by 13 he was already competing in the Barbados Cricket League.

He first represented Barbados at 16 and, a year later, earned a West Indies call-up for a Test against England at Sabina Park in Jamaica — the opening chapter of a celebrated international career.

Recognition followed beyond the boundary. Queen Elizabeth II knighted him in 1975, and Barbados named him a National Hero in 1998. He stands among the island’s 11 national heroes and was the first to receive that distinction while still alive.

Russell said Sobers’ influence will outlast the playing field, describing him as a figure remembered for integrity and character.

“More than just on the field, Sir Garry was a beacon for the people of the Caribbean off it. A man who always carried himself with grace, and despite his undoubted greatness, was always approachable,” Russell said.

“For all of us at CPL, we will not only be remembering Sir Garry as a once-in-a-lifetime player but also for his kindness and humility. He was ever present at the Kensington Oval with his beloved Jackie and he never lost his true love for our game,” he continued.

“He was always happy to give his time to those who wanted to speak to him, unfailingly gave advice to young cricketers who were making their way in the game and was generous with his time in a way that is truly remarkable for a man of his stature.”

Russell said staging this year’s CPL final at Kensington Oval — the ground long associated with Sobers — offers a fitting stage to mark that legacy.

“We know that Sir Garry would have been hugely excited that the CPL final will be coming to his cherished Kensington Oval this year and we are devastated that he will not be there with us for that match.

Russell continued, “We will be keeping his spirit alive throughout this year’s tournament and will be using the CPL final as a chance to remember Sir Garry, what he did for our game and the region and the lasting impact he had on all of the people that he met throughout his extraordinary life.”