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New Delhi: Bishan Singh Bedi, the cricketing legend, and former captain of the Indian cricket team, passed away on Monday at the age of 77. Bedi was an iconic spinner renowned for his exceptional skills. Between 1967 and 1979, the legendary spinner played 67 Tests for India, taking 266 wickets. In addition, he took seven wickets in ten One-Day Internationals.
During his illustrious career, which spanned from 1967 to 1979, Bedi represented India in 67 Test matches, leaving a lasting impact with his remarkable performances. Bedi, along with Erapalli Prasanna, BS Chandrasekhar and S Venkataraghavan, were the architects of a revolution of sorts in India’s spin bowling history.
The Amritsar-born spinner, Bishan Singh Bedi was a highly skilled left-arm orthodox spinner celebrated for his graceful bowling style. He began his international cricket journey in 1966, representing India until 1979. 77-year-old was known for his mastery of flight and spin, using subtle variations to outwit batsmen. His leadership was crucial in India’s historic 1971 series win against England when he captained the team in the absence of the injured Ajit Wadekar, strengthening India’s reputation as a competitive cricket nation.
Apart from his international career, Bedi had a distinguished domestic cricket career, especially with the Delhi team. He served as a mentor to many spin bowlers and played an important role in nurturing young cricket talent in India. Bedi’s influence extended beyond the field, as he became a respected commentator and advocate of fair play and sportsmanship.
Even after retiring from the game, Bedi continued to be an outspoken voice in the cricketing world, expressing his opinions on various cricket-related matters. He remains an esteemed figure in Indian cricket, celebrated for his artistry and unwavering dedication to the sport.
Bedi was briefly the manager of the Indian cricket team during the tour of New Zealand and England in 1990. He was also the national selector and mentor to many talented spinners such as Maninder Singh and Murali Karthik, who admired his technical insight.
