Tributes from across the cricket world poured in after the death of legendary West Indies all-rounder Garry Sobers on Friday at the age of 89.

Sobers is regarded as one of the greatest players in cricket history.

AFP Sport looks at the lavish praise bestowed on Sobers:

Geoffrey Boycott, former England batsman

“Anyone who saw him in his pomp will have wonderful memories of a great batsman, the greatest all-rounder, an icon, a once-in-your-lifetime, exceptional cricketer. And, even more important, a lovely man.”

Kishore Shallow, Cricket West Indies president

“A son of Barbados whose extraordinary journey became part of the story of our region and whose brilliance carried the name of the West Indies with distinction across the world.”

VVS Laxman, former India batsman

“A true giant of the game whose extraordinary skill, grace and sportsmanship inspired generations of cricketers around the world. His legacy will forever remain a part of cricket’s rich history.”

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, India’s teenage batsman

“Never had the chance to watch Sir Garry Sobers play, but grew up hearing his greatness from my father. A legend across generations.”

Nottinghamshire, Sobers’ English county

“We are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Garfield Sobers. Cricket’s greatest-ever all-rounder and an iconic figure in Nottinghamshire history.”

England Cricket

“One of the greatest to ever play the game. Forever in our hearts, Sir Garfield Sobers.”

— AFP