Former Indian cricket captain and spin legend Bishan Singh Bedi died on Monday at the age of 77 after a prolonged illness.
The ex-skipper underwent several medical procedures including a knee surgery in the last two years. He is survived with his wife Anju and two children Neha and Angad.
The left-handed spinner represented India in 67 Tests and 10 One Day Internationals (ODIs) from 1967-79.
He took 266 wickets in Tests and 7 wickets in ODIs. He played a vital role in India's first ODI victory against East Africa in the 1975 World Cup, bowling 12 overs conceding only six runs and taking one wicket. In his 12 overs, he bowled eight maiden overs.
He also has a wonderful record in first-class cricket as he took a total of 1,560 wickets in 370 matches. Under his captaincy, the Delhi team won back to back Ranji Trophy in 1978-79 and 1980-81.
Apart from this, Bedi also made his mark in the County cricket as he played 102 First-Class matches for Northamptonshire and bagged 434 wickets from 1972-77.
For his contribution to the sports and country, the Indian government honoured him with Padma Shri, fourth-highest civilian award, in 1970.
He was appointed as the captain of the team in 1976 and his first test victory as skipper came against West Indies in Port-of-Spain.
Tributes Pour in for Bedi
As soon as the news about the demise of one of the greatest Indian spinner was out, tributes poured in from all sections.
“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,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a tweet expressing grief over his demise.
Terming it a huge loss for world cricket, Federal Minister for Sports Anurag Thakur said: “Former captain of the Indian cricket team and a bowler who will be always remembered fondly, Bishan Singh Bedi ji is no more with us. It's a very tragic news.”
“In Himachal Pradesh's Dharamsala, he arranged a number of training camps. And when this stadium was coming through, he used to stay in the Indian dressing room. He would stay here and prepare the players. Although he has always had a wonderful relation with Punjab and Delhi, he had a place in his heart reserved for Himachal as well. Condolences to his entire family,” he further said.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also mourned the death of the left-arm spinner and extended condolences to the family of the former skipper.
Apart from this, tributes for one of the greatest spin bowlers came from all the sections of the society as not only cricketers and former cricketers but politicians as well as Bollywood stars also mourned his demise.