Legendary former West Indies all-rounder Sir Garfield Sobers, considered one of the greatest cricketers of all time, has died aged 89.
Between 1954 and 1974, Sobers played 93 Tests, scored 8,032 runs and took 235 wickets.
An entertaining left-handed batter, Sobers scored 365 not out against Pakistan in 1958, a score that was the highest Test score for 36 years.
He was also a brilliant all-round bowler, playing spin and seam.
Sobers, who also played county cricket for Nottinghamshire, was knighted for services to cricket in 1975.
He was also named one of Wisden’s five cricketers of the 20th century.
During his time with Nottinghamshire in 1968, Sobers became the first player to bowl six balls from all six overs in a first-class match.
“The great opportunity has come to an end. In our hearts, now and forever, is Sir Garfield Sobers,” said Cricket West Indies.
Nottinghamshire described Sobers as “cricket’s greatest all-rounder and an iconic figure in Nottinghamshire history”.
“We are extremely saddened by the news of the passing of Sir Garfield Sobers,” the club said.
England also paid tribute on social media, calling Sobers “one of the greatest to ever play the game.”
“Forever in our hearts, Sir Garfield Sobers,” they added.
Sobers made his first-class debut for Barbados at 16 and played for the West Indies at 17.
He was initially more successful as a bowler than a batter – playing with left-arm wrist and finger spin as well as pace – but then scored 26 Test centuries and finished his career with an average of 57.78.
During his first-class career he scored 28,314 runs, including 7,041 for Nottinghamshire. He was also an excellent fielder.
Although not as successful a captain as a player, he captained the West Indies between 1965 and 1972. He also captained the Rest of the World XI during their tour of England in 1970.