The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has ordered all flags on public buildings across the country to be flown at half-mast in honour of the late Sir Garfield Sobers, the legendary Barbadian cricketer whose death has prompted an outpouring of grief across the Caribbean and the wider cricketing world.

The announcement was made by Acting Prime Minister, the Hon. Sir Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin, following consultations with Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Gaston Browne and members of Cabinet.

The decision reflects what the Government described as the nation’s deep respect and admiration for a man widely regarded as the greatest all-round cricketer the sport has ever produced.

Sir Garfield, who died at the age of 89, leaves behind an unmatched cricketing legacy. During an illustrious international career spanning two decades, he redefined excellence through his brilliance with both bat and ball while also setting extraordinary standards in the field.

His achievements include 8,032 Test runs at an average of 57.78, 26 Test centuries, and becoming the first cricketer to hit six consecutive sixes in an over during a first-class match. Equally accomplished as a fast-medium, swing and spin bowler, Sir Garfield’s versatility remains unmatched in the history of the game.

A lifelong cricket enthusiast and former player himself, Sir Steadroy said the passing of Sir Garfield represents a tremendous loss not only for Barbados but for the entire Caribbean.

“Sir Garfield Sobers was not merely a cricketing icon; he was a Caribbean icon whose remarkable talent, humility and love for the game united people across nations and generations,” Sir Steadroy said. “His achievements elevated West Indies cricket to unprecedented heights and gave immense pride to every Caribbean citizen.”

He extended condolences on behalf of the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda to Sir Garfield’s family, the Government and people of Barbados, and the wider West Indies cricket fraternity.

The Acting Prime Minister said lowering the national flags serves as a symbol of gratitude for Sir Garfield’s extraordinary contribution to Caribbean identity and sporting excellence.

“Sir Garfield showed the world that a son of the Caribbean could become the benchmark against which greatness is measured. His legacy will continue to inspire young athletes to pursue excellence with discipline, courage and imagination. Flying our flags at half-mast is a fitting tribute to a man whose influence reached far beyond the boundary ropes.”

Sir Steadroy also emphasized that Sir Garfield’s influence transcended national borders, describing him as a son of the entire Caribbean.

“At moments such as these, the Caribbean mourns as one family. Sir Garfield Sobers represented the very best of our region—extraordinary ability, resilience, confidence and grace. His life serves as a reminder of what Caribbean people can achieve on the world stage.”

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda joins governments, cricketing bodies and millions of admirers around the world in paying tribute to Sir Garfield Sobers, whose remarkable legacy as one of the greatest sporting figures of all time will continue to inspire generations to come.