The cricketing world is in mourning following the passing of legendary West Indian all-rounder Sir Garfield (Garry) Sobers, widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.
Former Pakistan captain Mushtaq Mohammad, the “Asian Bradman” Zaheer Abbas, ex-Test cricketers Sarfraz Nawaz and Mudassar Nazar, Sadiq Mohamad, Shoaib Mohamnad,Shafqat Rana, Azam Khan Former PIA First Class Cricketer, along with sports organizer Sohail Javed Butt, expressed profound grief at his demise, calling it an irreparable loss to global cricket.
They paid tribute to Sobers’ extraordinary career, noting his spectacular batting, effective bowling, and exceptional fielding, which earned him immortal status in the sport. His monumental achievements, they said, will continue to inspire future generations. Former Pakistan captain Mushtaq Mohammad, now 82, recalled his historic debut against Sobers in 1959 at Bagh-e-Jinnah, Lahore, when he became the world’s youngest Test cricketer at just 15 years and 124 days. Mushtaq shared that playing against Sobers at the very start of his career was a matter of immense pride. He also remembered the fierce era of cricket without helmets, recounting how a bouncer from Sir Wesley Hall struck opener Ijaz Butt, forcing him to retire hurt.
Mushtaq described Sobers as not only a titan of the game but also a compassionate gentleman, embodying the highest standards of sportsmanship.
Former cricketers Mudassar Nazar and Sarfraz Nawaz, along with Sohail Javed Butt, emphasized that Sobers redefined cricket with his extraordinary talent, ensuring his name will forever belong to the golden chapters of cricket history. They extended heartfelt condolences to Sobers’ family, the West Indies cricket community, and fans worldwide, praying for his eternal peace and strength for his loved ones.
Sir Garfield Sobers’ passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy as one of cricket’s greatest all-rounders will remain everlasting. His influence continues to shape the game, reminding the world of the artistry, resilience, and brilliance that define cricket’s finest.