Cricket legend Sir Wes Hall has paid an emotional tribute to The Right Excellent Sir Garfield Sobers, describing the late Barbadian icon as one of his “very best friends” and the greatest cricketer the world has ever seen.
In a statement following Sir Garry’s passing, Sir Wes reflected on a friendship spanning more than 80 years, recalling Sobers’ generosity, humility and lasting impact both on and off the cricket field.
Below is the full statement from Sir Wes Hall:
I am devastated to learn of the passing of my dear friend, Sir Garry Sobers. For more than 80 years, we shared a friendship that I will always treasure.
Today, I have lost one of my very best friends, and the cricketing world has lost the greatest cricketer it has ever seen.
Garry was not only a phenomenal sportsman; he was one of the most generous people I have ever known. He would give you the shirt off his back – and he often did. Whenever he returned home from touring, he made sure to bring gifts for people in his community, often giving away shirts and other items simply because it brought him joy to make others happy. That was the kind of man he was.
It was a privilege and a joy to tour and play alongside him. I learnt so much from Garry, not only about cricket but about life, friendship, and humility. His talent was unmatched, but his kindness was just as remarkable.
I am deeply saddened because I was hoping he would make it to 90 – not out. Sadly, that was not to be.
July is turning out to be a very difficult month for me. Five years ago, during this same month, I lost my other best friend, Rawle Brancker. Now, with Garry’s passing, July will forever be a month of mourning in my life.
My heartfelt condolences go to his family, and to the countless people around the world whose lives he touched. Sir Garry’s legacy will live on forever, and I will always cherish the memories of the wonderful friend I was blessed to have for more than eight decades.