West Indies cricket and the global sporting fraternity mourned the passing of legendary all-rounder Sir Garfield "Garry" Sobers, who died at the age of 89 on Friday. Widely regarded as the greatest all-rounder in the history of cricket, Sobers left behind an unmatched legacy after an illustrious international career that spanned two decades.

The news of his death was officially announced by Cricket West Indies through a statement, confirming that the Barbadian icon had passed away. The board expressed its grief by stating, “A great innings has come to an end. In our hearts, now and forever, Sir Garfield Sobers. 🖤🏏,” paying tribute to one of the game's finest ambassadors.

Sobers represented the West Indies in 93 Test matches between 1954 and 1974, scoring 8,032 runs at an average of 57.78, including 26 centuries, while also claiming 235 wickets. His iconic unbeaten 365 against Pakistan in 1958 remained the highest individual Test score for 36 years.

He also became the first cricketer to hit six sixes in a single over in first-class cricket, further cementing his legendary status. Beyond his remarkable numbers, Sobers was admired for his versatility as a batter, bowler, and fielder. Knighted in 1975 for his outstanding services to cricket, he inspired generations across the globe.

Tributes poured in from cricket boards, former players, and fans following the announcement, celebrating a career that transformed the sport forever. Sir Garfield Sobers' legacy will continue to inspire cricketers and remain one of the greatest chapters in cricket history.

When Garry Sobers became first cricketer to hit six sixes in single over

Sir Garfield "Garry" Sobers etched his name into cricket history on August 31, 1968, when he became the first cricketer to hit six sixes in a single over in first-class cricket. Representing Nottinghamshire against Glamorgan in the County Championship at St Helen's, Swansea, Sobers unleashed a breathtaking display of power against left-arm bowler Malcolm Nash.

Nash, who had switched from his usual medium pace to spin in an attempt to slow the scoring, instead found himself on the receiving end of one of cricket's most unforgettable overs. Sobers dispatched each of the six deliveries over the boundary, finishing with the maximum 36 runs from the over.

The fifth ball was almost caught by Roger Davis near the boundary rope, but the fielder lost his balance and stepped over the rope while holding the ball, resulting in another six. Sobers then completed the historic feat by launching the final delivery over deep square leg. The extraordinary achievement stunned spectators and instantly became one of the game's defining moments. It was the first time any batter had struck six consecutive sixes in an over in first-class cricket, setting a benchmark that remained unmatched for years.

The remarkable over also inspired future generations, with players such as Ravi Shastri, Herschelle Gibbs and Yuvraj Singh later replicating the feat in different formats. More than five decades later, Sobers' six sixes remain one of cricket's most iconic moments, perfectly reflecting the fearless strokeplay and unmatched talent that established him as one of the greatest all-rounders the sport has ever seen.