Cricket giants honour West Indies great Garry Sobers after death at 89

Condolences swept through international cricket on Friday after West Indies all-rounder Garry Sobers died at 89. Widely ranked among the finest cricketers ever, he drew warm remembrance from peers, officials and clubs linked to his career.

Former England batsman Geoffrey Boycott said: “Anyone who saw him in his pomp will have wonderful memories of a great batsman, the greatest all-rounder, an icon, a once-in-your-lifetime, exceptional cricketer. And, even more important, a lovely man.”

Cricket West Indies president Kishore Shallow said: “A son of Barbados whose extraordinary journey became part of the story of our region and whose brilliance carried the name of the West Indies with distinction across the world.”

Former India batsman VVS Laxman said: “A true giant of the game whose extraordinary skill, grace and sportsmanship inspired generations of cricketers around the world. His legacy will forever remain a part of cricket’s rich history.”

India’s teenage batsman Vaibhav Sooryavanshi said: “Never had the chance to watch Sir Garry Sobers play, but grew up hearing his greatness from my father. A legend across generations.”

Nottinghamshire, the English county where Sobers played, said: “We are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Garfield Sobers. Cricket’s greatest-ever all-rounder and an iconic figure in Nottinghamshire history.”

England Cricket said: “One of the greatest to ever play the game. Forever in our hearts, Sir Garfield Sobers.”