INDIA: Bishan Singh Bedi, India’s greatest-ever left-arm spinner and former captain, died on Monday, October 23, 2023, at the age of 77.
Bedi, who was born in 1946 in Amritsar, debuted internationally in 1966 at the renowned Eden Gardens against the formidable West Indies. Throughout his career, the esteemed Indian cricketer participated in 67 Test matches.
The renowned spinner took 266 wickets while representing India. During his international career, the legendary bowler Bedi—who was renowned for his spin wizardry—recorded up to five five-wicket hauls and one ten-wicket haul.
Bedi, who made his One Day International (ODI) debut against England at Headingley in 1974, participated in 10 limited-overs matches for India. The spin-bowling legend’s last appearance in an Indian jersey took place against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford in 1979.
For the last two years, Bedi has been in poor health and has had to undergo multiple surgeries. Following Bedi’s passing, many members of the cricket community expressed their respects and paid tribute to the former Indian captain on X (formerly known as Twitter).
Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar wrote, “Sashu,” he’d say with warmth that only he possessed. To Bishan Paaji, I wasn’t just another cricketer; I was like a son. Under his nurturing guidance, I scored my first 100 in England. On chilly NZ evenings, we’d sit over meals, and I’d hang on to every story he told, every piece of wisdom he shared. Today, there’s an echoing silence where his voice used to be. The world seems a little emptier without you, Paaji. Rest in the eternal peace you so deserve.🙏🏻.”
“Bishan Singh Bedi One of our best is no more. It’s a loss to our cricketing fraternity. My deep condolences to his family,” wrote Irfan Pathan.
Harbhajan Singh conveyed his sympathies to Bedi’s family on X, saying, “Bishan paji 💔 RIP #bishanbedi 🙏 condolences to my brother @Imangadbedi and family . Waheguru.”
“The BCCI mourns the sad demise of former India Test Captain and legendary spinner, Bishan Singh Bedi. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and fans in these tough times. May his soul rest in peace 🙏,” Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) wrote.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences, saying, “Deeply saddened by the passing of noted cricketer Shri Bishan Singh Bedi Ji. His passion for the sport was unwavering and his exemplary bowling performances led India to numerous memorable victories. He will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
The late Bishan Singh Bedi, a former captain of the Indian cricket team, is survived by his wife Anju, son Angad, and daughter Neha. Bedi had a stint in the County Championship with Northamptonshire, where he claimed 434 first-class wickets.
Additionally, he had a brief managerial role for Team India during their 1990 tours of New Zealand and England. This former national selector also served as a mentor to Maninder Singh and Murali Kartik.
Also Read: Australian Cricket Legend Shane Warne Dies at 52
