Bishan Singh Bedi, a former spinner for India, passed away at the age of 77.
Former India captain and renowned spinner Bishan Singh Bedi passed away on Monday at the age of 77. Bedi’s health deteriorated during the past two years, requiring multiple medical treatments, including a knee surgery about a month ago. His wife Anju and two children, Angad and Neha, survive him.
“The BCCI laments the untimely passing of famous spinner Bishan Singh Bedi, a former captain of the Indian Test team. During these difficult times, our prayers and thoughts are with his family and followers. “May his soul rest in peace,” the Board of Control for Cricket in India wrote in an X post.
Throughout his 12-year career, which spanned from 1967 to 1979, Bedi played in 67 Test matches, making him one of India’s most renowned cricket players. Together with Erapalli Prasanna, BS Chandrasekhar, S. Venkataraghavan, and Bedi, they established the most potent spin quartet in Indian cricket history, revolutionising spin bowling around the globe.
In addition to winning the Padma Shri Award in 1970, Bedi led India in 22 Test matches and participated in the country’s first-ever One-Day International (ODI) against East Africa in 1975. In 12 overs, eight maidens, six runs conceded, and one wicket was claimed. Most people agree that Bedi is the best left-arm spinner in the game.
“Bishan Singh Bedi ji, a bowler who will always be remembered with fondness and a former captain of the Indian cricket team, is no longer with us. The news is extremely unfortunate, and the cricket world has lost a great player,” Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur told ANI.
“He set up several training programmes in Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh. He also used to stay in the Indian dressing room when this stadium was being built. He would remain here and get the players ready. He held a special place in his heart for Himachal even though he has always had excellent relations with Punjab and Delhi. My sympathies go out to his whole family.
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In 1969–70, Bedi made his Test debut against Australia and finished with 21 wickets in the series. There was no turning around. In the strictest sense, Bedi was one of the best spinners of all time, having taken 25 wickets against England, another 18 against the West Indies, 22 more against England, and 25 and 31 again against Australia.
In the Ranji Trophy, Bedi was a pillar of support for Delhi, helping the team win back-to-back championships in 1978–79 and 1980–81. In addition, Bedi became a legend in county cricket, as he represented Northamptonshire in 102 First-Class matches and claimed 434 wickets between 1972 and 1977.
Bedi took over as captain of the Indian team in 1976, replacing Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi. In his first victory as captain, India defeated the powerful West Indies in the third Test of the 1976 series at Port-of-Spain, where they scored a record-breaking 406 runs in the fourth innings to secure their place in history. India’s domination continued after this crushing win, which culminated in a 2-0 series victory against New Zealand at home.
However, despite these encouraging starts, Bedi would eventually lose a string of tough Test matches against Australia, England, and Pakistan, and Sunil Gavaskar would take over.
In addition, politicians responded.
“Deeply saddened by the demise of the legendary spinner and former captain of the Indian cricket team Bishan Singh Bedi Ji,” wrote Union Home Minister Amit Shah. In addition to his contributions to cricket, Bedi Ji will always be remembered as the master of deft bowling who could work tricks on the pitch. My sincere sympathies are with his family, as well as his admirers, during this difficult time.”
“Deeply saddened by the loss of a cricket legend and former captain of Team India, Padma Shri Bishan Singh Bedi Ji,” stated Nitin Gadkari, another Union Minister. His remarkable skill as a spin bowler made a lasting impression on the cricket community. My sincere sympathies go out to his loved ones and family. I hope future generations are inspired by his legacy. Haha, Shanti.
“Sadly, one of India’s all-time cricket legends, Bishen Singh Bedi, is no longer with us,” stated former Union Minister and Congress politician Jairam Ramesh. He was a member of the renowned foursome and an excellent spin bowler. He had an endearing and lively attitude both on and off the pitch, speaking his opinion without fear. Talking with him was always fascinating. He will always have a special place in our hearts and minds.”