On a momentous day during the ongoing fifth test of the Ashes 2023 series, English fast bowler Stuart Broad announced his retirement from the game, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that includes over 600 test wickets, 178 ODI wickets, and 65 T20 wickets. Little did he know that, some 4000 miles away in Barbados, at a different ‘Oval’, the greatest ever player to have played the sport, Sir Garfield Sobers, would have some heartfelt words for him.
As the second ODI between West Indies and India unfolded in Barbados, RevSportz correspondent Debasis Sen seized a unique opportunity to have a conversation with the iconic Sir Gary, who recently celebrated his 87th birthday. In this candid exchange, they delved into the brilliance of Virat Kohli’s batting and Sir Gary shared his thoughts on Stuart Broad’s illustrious career.
This is how the conversation went:
Sir Gary what are your thoughts on Virat Kohli the batter? He scored a brilliant century in the test series.
Sir Gary: I think he is a very good player. He has got the right approach, the right attitude. I am not surprised with the amount of runs he scores.
Do you reckon he can break all batting records?
Sir Gary: I wouldn’t say that because the game can be really funny at times and there are bowlers who are also very good and can do certain things with the ball that can hurt you.
What is the one thing about Virat that has impressed you the most? What is the special quality that separates him from others?
Sir Gary: Well, I think he works hard and recognizes the way the bowlers bowl at him, and he plays accordingly. He’s not a player to go in there and play and get runs playing rash strokes.
Sir Gary Today Stuart Broad has announced his retirement. More than 800 wickets for England, he had an illustrious career. Would you please share some thoughts on Broad?
Sir Gary: Well! Any player that can do that sort of thing must have some kind of talent. They understand the game and the players they play against. They study the game really well, watch the players and see what their weaknesses are. That’s why they are successful.
It was a pleasure talking to you, Sir Gary. This conversation will stay with me throughout.
In the world of cricket, moments like these transcend generations, connecting players and fans alike in a shared love for the game. The impact of cricketing legends like Sir Garfield Sobers will resonate in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts for years to come. And clearly Stuart Broad couldn’t have had a better tribute.