India’s cricket fraternity is in mourning as the legendary former captain and left-arm spin wizard, Bishan Singh Bedi, breathed his last on Monday at the age of 77. Bedi, who was hailed as India’s greatest ever left-arm spinner, left an indelible mark on the world of cricket with his impeccable skills and unwavering commitment to the sport.
During his illustrious career, Bishan Singh Bedi donned the Indian cricket jersey in 67 Test matches, where he showcased his exceptional spin bowling prowess. Bedi’s remarkable record boasted 266 wickets, including 14 five-wicket hauls and one memorable 10-wicket haul, solidifying his status as a cricketing icon.
The news of his demise comes after a prolonged battle with illness, leaving a profound void in the cricketing world. Bedi is survived by his wife Anju, son Angad, and daughter Neha.
Bishan Singh Bedi was an integral part of Indian cricket’s golden era, where he formed the famed quartet of spinners alongside Erapalli Prasanna, Bhagwat Chandrasekhar, and Srinivas Venkataraghavan. Together, this formidable quartet constituted the backbone of India’s bowling attack, setting the standard for spin bowling in international cricket during a remarkable era that spanned from 1966 to 1978.
Bedi’s graceful and artful spin bowling mesmerized cricket enthusiasts not only in India but across the globe. His influence on the field was as strong as his persona off it, earning him a special place in the hearts of millions of fans.
Apart from his on-field contributions, Bishan Singh Bedi made valuable off-field contributions to Indian cricket as well. In 1990, he took on the role of manager of the Indian cricket team during tours of New Zealand and England, bringing his wealth of knowledge and experience to guide the team.
He also served as a national selector, a position that allowed him to continue nurturing and developing young talents. Many budding spinners, including Maninder Singh and Murali Kartik, found in Bedi a mentor who shared his technical insights, thus helping them grow and succeed in their cricketing careers.
Bishan Singh Bedi’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers, and his name will forever be etched in the annals of Indian cricket history as one of the finest spin bowlers and leaders the country has ever produced. His contribution to the sport, both on and off the field, will be remembered and cherished by cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
