Legendary India spinner Bishan Singh Bedi dies at 77

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• Oct 23, 2023 | Dhupali Das

India's cricket fraternity mourns the loss of a true legend as legendary spinner Bishan Singh Bedi passed away at the age of...

Digital Desk: India's cricket fraternity mourns the loss of a true legend as legendary spinner Bishan Singh Bedi passed away at the age of 77 on Monday, October 23, 2023. Bedi, who was born in Amritsar, India, on September 25, 1946, left an indelible mark on the world of cricket.

Between 1967 and 1979, Bedi donned the Indian jersey in 67 Test matches, where he spun his way to 266 wickets. Additionally, he showcased his talent in ten one-day internationals, claiming seven wickets. Bedi was a vital part of a quartet of legendary spinners, including Erapalli Prasanna, BS Chandrasekhar, and S. Venkataraghavan, who revolutionized Indian spin bowling.

One of his most memorable moments came in the 1975 World Cup when his impeccable bowling performance of 12-8-6-1 helped restrict East Africa to a mere 120 runs, securing India's first-ever ODI victory. Bedi's elegant left-arm orthodox spin and exceptional mastery of flight and spin often outwitted even the most accomplished batsmen.

In addition to his cricketing prowess, Bedi was a mentor to many budding cricketers and played an essential role in nurturing talent, particularly with the Delhi team in domestic cricket. His leadership shone brightest when he captained the Indian cricket team during the historic 1971 series victory against England, further elevating India's status as a competitive cricketing nation.

Off the field, Bedi continued to contribute to the game, becoming a respected commentator and a staunch advocate for fair play and sportsmanship. He remained an influential voice in cricket long after his retirement, sharing his opinions on various cricket-related matters.

Bishan Singh Bedi's legacy will forever be etched in the annals of Indian cricket, celebrated not only for his artistry with the ball but also for his unwavering dedication to the sport. His passing marks the end of an era, but his influence will continue to inspire generations of cricketers to come. The cricketing world has truly lost a gem.