The ongoing Test series between Australia and India, named after cricketing legends Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar, often brings discussions about the game’s greatest players. Gavaskar, affectionately called the ‘Little Master,’ frequently faces such queries during interviews. Recently, during a talk show, he was asked to name the greatest Indian batter, choosing between himself, Sachin Tendulkar, and Virat Kohli. His unexpected response left the podcast host astonished.
Instead of picking one of the suggested options, Gavaskar highlighted a different name entirely—former West Indies legend Sir Gary Sobers. Despite his own remarkable career, which featured 34 Test centuries scored against some of the fiercest bowling attacks, including the formidable West Indies of his era, Gavaskar chose not to place himself in the spotlight.
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Even Sachin Tendulkar, revered as the ‘God of Cricket,’ and modern-day maestro Kohli didn’t make the cut for Sunil Gavaskar’s pick. “I think everybody was good, but Gary Sobers was the best,” Gavaskar remarked on The Front Bar podcast. The amused host pointed out that Sobers wasn’t even among the options, leading to laughter. Gavaskar cheekily responded, “I know that, and that’s where the dry comes in,” showcasing his wit and admiration for Sobers.
Sir Gary Sobers’ cricketing feats justify Gavaskar’s praise. Debuting for the West Indies at just 17, Sobers etched his name in history by scoring a then-world-record 365 not out against Pakistan in 1958. Astonishingly, this monumental inning was his maiden Test century. Sobers’ record remained unbroken until 1994, underscoring its historic significance.
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Across his illustrious career, Sobers played 93 Test matches, amassing 8,032 runs at an incredible average of 57.78. His tally included 26 centuries and 30 half-centuries. Additionally, Sobers was a formidable all-rounder, claiming 235 Test wickets at an average of 34.03, and delivering several match-winning performances. While his ODI career consisted of just one match, his impact on cricket remains unparalleled.
Gavaskar’s choice reflects his deep appreciation for cricketing excellence across eras. By naming Sobers, he not only paid tribute to one of the sport’s greatest but also emphasized the importance of acknowledging greatness beyond national boundaries.
