Comments

There are sporting superstars for each and every generation, but some exponents of their chosen game achieve a level of excellence that can seemingly never be eclipsed by the passage of time. Whilst some might argue that there have been greater boxing heavyweights than Muhummad Ali, few would argue that he redefined the possibilities of ‘one on one’ combat, attracting the attention of millions who would not ordinarily have been interested.

Gary Sobers has achieved comparable immortality as a cricketing genius. Whilst he undoubtedly excelled at all aspects of the game – his claim to the title of finest allround player in modern cricket is largely uncontested – his exceptional Test batting average tells little about the manner in which he made the runs, his elegant yet powerful style marked by all the shots, but memorably his off-side play.

As a batsman he was great, and yet his bowling ability alone would have guaranteed his place in the West Indies side. He was remarkably versatile with the ball, bowling two styles of spin – left-arm orthodox and wrist spin, but was also a fine fast-medium opening bowler. His catching close to the wicket may have been equalled, but never surpassed, and he was a brilliant fielder anywhere.