India and England players wore black armbands and observed a minute’s silence before the third ODI at Lord’s to pay tribute to legendary West Indies all-rounder Sir Garfield Sobers, who passed away at the age of 89.
3rd ODI: India, England players wear black armbands in memory of Sir Garfield Sobers/ Credit: BCCI/X
Players from India and England wore black armbands and observed a minute’s silence before the start of the third ODI at Lord’s on Sunday in memory of legendary West Indies all-rounder Sir Garfield Sobers, who passed away on Friday at the age of 89.
Ahead of the series decider, players from both teams and the match officials lined up for a poignant tribute to one of cricket’s greatest-ever icons. The respectful silence was observed by a packed Lord’s crowd, honouring Sobers’ extraordinary contribution to the game.
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#TeamIndia is wearing black armbands to pay tribute to West Indies legend Sir Garfield Sobers following his passing on Friday.#ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/cYXAWc40iT
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— BCCI (@BCCI) July 19, 2026
Born in Barbados, Sobers is widely regarded as the finest all-rounder in cricket history. During an illustrious international career spanning from 1954 to 1974, he scored 8,032 runs in 93 Tests at an average of 57.78, claimed 235 wickets, and took 109 catches.
He also etched his name into cricket folklore in 1968 by becoming the first batter to hit six sixes in a single over in first-class cricket.
Sobers remains one of only two cricketers, alongside Jacques Kallis, to complete the rare Test double of 8,000 runs and 200 wickets.
England fast bowler Jofra Archer, who hails from Barbados, paid an emotional tribute to Sobers before the match.
“To the community of West Indies cricket, he is a legend, one of the greatest all-rounders ever. I saw him a couple of months ago when I was at home in Barbados and he said he was moving well for his age. I was very sad to hear the news.”
Young England all-rounder Jacob Bethell also reflected on Sobers’ influence, describing him as a larger-than-life personality who played a key role in helping him pursue his cricket career in England.
“He was a larger-than-life character. Every time he walked into anywhere, the place would come alive. It was unbelievable to spend time with someone of that calibre.
“The major helping point for me personally was helping me get over to England. The reference he wrote helped me a lot to get over here and do what I’m doing now.”
The emotional tribute at Lord’s ensured the cricketing world paused to honour a player whose legacy continues to inspire generations across the globe.
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