Death of great spinner Bishan Singh Bedi
New Delhi. Former Indian cricket captain and great spinner Bishan Singh Bedi died on Monday at the age of 77. Tributes for the Indian cricket legend have started coming from every corner of the country.
The great spinner played 67 Tests for India between 1967 and 1979 and took 266 wickets. He also took seven wickets in 10 One Day Internationals.
Bedi, who represented Delhi in domestic cricket, achieved the notable feat of being the highest wicket-taker among Indian players in first-class cricket, taking 1,560 wickets in 370 matches.
During the 1975 World Cup, Bedi returned with figures of 12-8-6-1 against East Africa, the most economical spell in 60-over ODIs.
From the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to its officials, from former cricketers to politicians, everyone mourned the demise of the former cricketer.
BCCI posted on Twitter: “BCCI condoles the demise of former India Test captain and great spinner Bishan Singh Bedi. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and fans at this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace. “
BCCI Secretary Jai Shah said, “Saddened to hear the demise of Bishan Singh Bedi. Indian cricket has lost an icon today. Bedi sir defined an era of cricket and he was remembered for his artistry as a spin bowler.” Left a special mark on the game. My prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur said, “Deeply saddened to hear about the demise of India’s great spinner Bishan Singh Bedi. His contribution to Indian cricket and his artistry on the field will always be remembered by his family, friends and the entire cricket community.” My heartfelt condolences to. May his soul rest in peace.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also condoled the demise of the great spinner and said, “Deeply saddened by the demise of the great spinner and former captain of the Indian cricket team Bishan Singh Bedi ji.
He will always be remembered by the people, not only for his contribution to the world of cricket but also as a master of skillful bowling who could create magic on the pitch. My heartfelt condolences to his family members and his fans in this hour of grief.”
Many cricketers including former Indian spin master Harbhajan Singh, Dinesh Karthik, Irfan Pathan and fast bowler Mohammad Siraj also expressed their condolences.
–IANS
