'Best cricketer ever' — Holding pays tribute to humble genius Sobers
Michael Holding, the legendary West Indies fast bowler, has paid tribute to Garry Sobers, describing the former all-rounder as a standout even among cricket's greatest players. Sobers passed away at the age of 89.
Speaking to AFP from his home in the Cayman Islands, Holding, 72, said he never played with Sobers but was struck by the way he was revered in the game. 'Among the great cricketers he stood out,' Holding said. 'Look at his numbers, and they are impressive but he too was impressive. I know other cricketers whose numbers are good but who I would not be impressed by.'
Holding recalled words from former Australian captain Ian Chappell, who described Sobers as more than just the best all-rounder. Chappell told Holding, 'Mikey, do not worry about the question, Is Garry Sobers the best all-rounder? He was more than that — he was the best cricketer that ever lived.'
Holding noted that these comments carried weight coming from an Australian, a country that produced Don Bradman. Sobers, born in Barbados, played 93 Tests between 1954 and 1974, scoring 8,032 runs at an average of 57.78 and taking 235 wickets at 34.03. He also captained West Indies in 39 Tests.
Among Sobers' extraordinary feats: in 1958 he broke Len Hutton's record for the highest individual Test score by making 365 not out against Pakistan, a mark that stood for 36 years. He was the first player to hit six sixes in an over in a first-class match.
Holding emphasized Sobers' humility. 'It was always good to be around Sir Garry,' Holding said. 'One thing I noticed is he never spoke about himself. There are so many cricketers who do and start with 'In my time'. He did not like to talk about the game a lot unless he was asked a question. He was a very humble man.'
Reflecting on Sobers' legacy, Holding said that while Sobers may have inspired young West Indians, trying to emulate him would be impossible. 'Nobody could do what he did. If you did try, you would fall flat on your face. You could look up at him on the pedestal and be proud he is from the Caribbean.'
