Clive Lloyd honours Sir Garfield Sobers at Barbados state funeral
Sir Clive Lloyd has led the tributes to the late Sir Garfield Sobers during a state funeral for the West Indies cricket legend in Barbados.
The celebrated all-rounder, who died aged 89 on 17 July, was honoured at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown.
Lloyd described his former team-mate as the greatest all-round cricketer the world has ever known.
“He brought to the beautiful game a rare combination of brilliance, imagination, courage and joy.”Sir Clive Lloyd
Legends gather at Kensington Oval
The service of thanksgiving took place at the nation’s principal cricket ground, which features a pavilion named in honour of the deceased star.
Sobers’ coffin, draped in the national flag, arrived at the stadium on a gun carriage following a formal procession through the capital.
Mourners formed a guard of honour with raised cricket bats as the carriage entered the sporting venue.
Fellow Caribbean cricketing greats Brian Lara and Desmond Haynes also delivered speeches celebrating the extraordinary life of their mentor.
“This is not a sad moment; this is a moment for us to celebrate the remarkable life of the greatest all-round cricketer.”Brian Lara
A towering legacy in world cricket
An exceptionally gifted left-handed batter and versatile bowler, the late great played 93 Tests between 1954 and 1974.
He amassed 8,032 runs and claimed 235 wickets during a glittering international career.
The prolific run-scorer famously held the record for the highest individual Test score for 36 years after hitting 365 not out against Pakistan in 1958.
He also secured his place in domestic folklore by becoming the first player to hit six sixes in an over during a 1968 first-class match for Nottinghamshire.
Global figures pay final respects
Current West Indies Test captain Roston Chase and vice-captain Jomel Warrican attended the ceremony following their recent Test victory over Pakistan in Trinidad.
Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and international music superstar Rihanna were also present to pay their respects to the beloved national icon.
Reverend Canon Guy Hewitt read a personal message from King Charles, highlighting the enduring affection for the legendary figure.
“History is distinguished with sporting champions whose records have rightly commanded respect across generations.”King Charles