ST JOHN’S, Antigua:

The memory of the legendary Sir Garfield Sobers will continue to be honoured during the upcoming Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the CPL announced that Sir Garry, who passed away on July 17 at the age of 89, would be honoured with a minute’s applause ahead of the first match at each tournament location this season.

“The gesture will be observed once in every host territory as CPL travels across the Caribbean, ensuring fans in each country the tournament visits have the opportunity to honour Sir Garfield’s life and legacy.

“For many supporters, this will be the first chance to publicly show how much Sir Garfield’s contribution to Caribbean and regional cricket meant to them, coming together as one to applaud a man who shaped the game they love,” the statement further read.

The CPL also revealed that additional tributes for Sir Garry would continue throughout the season, which bowls off on Friday with Jamaica Kingsmen taking on the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons at Arnos Vale in St Vincent.

Chief executive officer of the CPL, Pete Russell, said it was a fitting gesture for a man widely regarded as the greatest cricketer of all time.

“Sir Garfield Sobers did not just play cricket, he defined what was possible in the sport. He gave West Indies cricket its identity on the world stage and inspired generations of players across the region to believe in their own greatness.

“It is only fitting that every ground we play on this season pauses to honour him,” Russell said.