Legendary West Indies cricketer Garfield Sobers passes away at 89

Garfield Sobers, a legendary cricketer for the West Indies, has passed away at the age of 89. Sobers was one of the greatest all-rounders to ever play the game. Between 1954 and 1974, he played in 93 Tests and one One-Day International, scoring 8032 runs at an average of 57.78.

Sobers, who was born and raised in Barbados, was well-known for his versatility as a left-arm bowler who could bowl medium pace and both orthodox and wrist spin. He made his first-class and international debuts at the ages of 16 and 18. In 1958, Sobers scored a then-record 365 in his first Test century against Pakistan, demonstrating his batting prowess. It remained the highest score in Test cricket until Brian Lara's 375 in 1994 and remains the highest maiden Test century.

In addition, the innings marked the beginning of a Bradman-like run for Sobers, who went on to score 500 or more runs in each of the subsequent five series, with the cover drive and hook standing out among the numerous other pitches. After that, Sobers went on a tour to India in 1958 and 1959, where he scored three centuries. The following year, he played England, scoring 709 runs at an average of 101.28. In that series, he played with Frank Worell for nine and a half hours, scoring 226 runs in a 399-run partnership.

Sobers was back at it when the Aussie challenge called. Before the counterattacking 168 at the SCG in 1961, he scored 132 in the fairytale Brisbane Test, the first ever tied Test. When he opened the bowling at Brisbane in 1968-69, his best bowling figures (6-73) also came against Australia. Notably, Sobers' fitness came into play in the series when he bowled 22 eight-ball overs in a row under oppressive conditions.

Sobers was recruited to lead the team following Sir Frank Worell's departure. He led the West Indies in 39 Test matches, which was a significant accomplishment for a captain. He is also one of only two players in Test cricket, along with Jacques Kallis, to have scored 8,000 runs and taken 200 wickets.

Sobers also famously became the first man to hit six sixes in an over in professional cricket, achieving the feat in 1968 while playing for Nottinghamshire against Glamorgan.

Sunil Gavaskar stated, "This is probably the saddest day for the game of cricket." "We have lost the greatest cricketer ever. Sir Garfield Sobers, the cricketer, is beyond description. He was everything we dream of becoming when we pick up the bat or the ball as kids.

"Memories keep flooding back and that's what I will be holding forever close to my heart. Sir Garfield, rest in peace. We will always keep you in our hearts."