Mumbai: Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has paid an emotional tribute to the late Sir Garfield Sobers, recalling how the West Indies great inspired him during his childhood and became one of his biggest international cricketing heroes.
Speaking at an event at Bombay Gymkhana celebrating Sobers’ life and legacy, Gavaskar shared memories of watching the legendary all-rounder in action and dreaming of bowling against some of the greatest batters of his era.
Gavaskar revealed that his earliest cricketing inspiration was M.L. Jaisimha, while Rohan Kanhai and Sobers became his favourite international players. As a youngster, he would bowl in the nets at Brabourne Stadium, imagining how he might dismiss the celebrated batters.
He recalled dreaming of getting Kanhai out with an outswinger that would produce a catch behind the wicket, before trapping Sobers leg-before-wicket. The memories offered a glimpse into the imagination of a young cricket enthusiast who would eventually become one of India’s finest opening batters.
Gavaskar also spoke about watching Sobers play at Brabourne Stadium in December 1966. He remembered the excitement surrounding the West Indies star and the disappointment among spectators when he was dismissed early in one innings. Sobers subsequently produced a magnificent unbeaten 142 in the second innings, reinforcing his reputation as one of the game’s most gifted performers.
The former India captain also reflected on his early international career, acknowledging that the experience of playing Test cricket gave him a new appreciation of the challenges faced by bowlers at the highest level.
Former West Indies fast bowler Ian Bishop also paid tribute to Sobers, remembering not only his extraordinary cricketing abilities but also his warmth, character and willingness to share his experience with others.
Widely regarded as one of cricket’s greatest all-rounders, Sobers left an enduring mark on the sport through his batting, bowling and fielding. His influence extended far beyond the Caribbean, inspiring generations of cricketers around the world.
For Gavaskar, the bond began long before international fame. Sobers was first an idol watched from the stands—a sporting hero whose brilliance helped shape the dreams of a future Indian cricket legend.
