Gardeners' World presenter Monty Don has shared the heartbreaking news of the death of cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers, prompting an immediate wave of support from his followers. The 69-year-old television gardener took to Instagram on July 18 to pay tribute to Sobers, who died at his home in Barbados at the age of 89, just 11 days before his 90th birthday.
Monty Don's Personal Tribute
Monty posted a photograph of Sobers' autograph, which he had collected as a young boy in 1966. In his caption, he wrote: "It is with great sadness that I heard the news about the death of Sir Garry Sobers. He was, without question, the greatest cricketer I ever had the privilege to see. I got his autograph when he went to play Southampton in August 1966, just after England won the World Cup."
He continued: "Not only did he break every kind of record, but he did so with such panache, elegance and style. I feel blessed for having been able to see that in action."
Fans Rally in Support
The post quickly attracted hundreds of comments from fans who shared their own memories of the cricketing great. One user remarked: "What a player, and how great to have seen him." Another wrote: "I had the pleasure of meeting him in Barbados when I was there to get married; being Notts born and bred it was great to meet a local legend."
A third fan added: "He was a class act who I remember so well. My grandfather and my father really admired him. Cricket runs deep in our family. I am so sad at this news."
Sir Garfield Sobers' Legacy
Sir Garfield Sobers is widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history. He played 93 Test matches for the West Indies between 1954 and 1974, scoring 8,032 runs and taking 235 wickets. He was knighted in 1975 for his services to cricket. His death was announced by Cricket West Indies, which stated: "A great innings has come to an end. In our hearts, now and forever, Sir Garfield Sobers."
