The cricketing world is mourning the loss of Sir Garfield Sobers, one of the greatest all-rounders the sport has ever seen. The West Indies legend passed away on July 17 at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy that shaped generations of cricketers.

Several current and former players paid tribute to Sobers, with Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, and Sunil Gavaskar among those remembering the iconic cricketer.

Virat Kohli's Heartfelt Tribute

Virat Kohli shared an emotional message on Instagram following the news of Sobers' passing.

He wrote:

"Cricket has lost one of its greatest players. Sir Garfield Sobers, may your soul rest in peace. Your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come."

Kohli and Sobers shared a mutual admiration over the years. During India's 2023 tour of the West Indies, the legendary all-rounder met Kohli on the field, and photographs of their interaction were widely appreciated by cricket fans.

Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar Also Pay Their Respects

Cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Sunil Gavaskar also expressed their grief.

Gavaskar described Sobers as one of the greatest cricketers the game has ever produced, calling his passing a deeply sad moment for the cricketing fraternity.

Sachin reflected on his memories of meeting Sobers over the years, including the 2003 Cricket World Cup, when Sir Garfield presented him with the Player of the Tournament award.

In his tribute, Tendulkar said he would always cherish those moments and described Sobers as a truly unique figure in the history of the game.

A Cricketing Icon

Sir Garfield Sobers is widely regarded as the greatest all-rounder in cricket history. A stylish left-handed batter, he was equally remarkable with the ball, capable of bowling fast-medium pace as well as both orthodox and wrist spin.

During his illustrious Test career for the West Indies, Sobers played 93 Tests, scoring:

• 8,032 runs
• Average: 57.78
• 26 centuries
• 235 wickets
• 109 catches

His versatility made him one of the most complete cricketers the game has ever witnessed.

Record That Changed Cricket History

In 1968, while representing Nottinghamshire in first-class cricket, Sir Garfield Sobers became the first batter in first-class cricket history to hit six sixes in a single over, a feat that remains one of the sport's most iconic milestones.