The cricket world has been plunged into mourning as legendary former Indian spinner Bishan Singh Bedi passed away at the age of 77. Bedi, who played a pivotal role in India’s cricket history, featured in 67 Test matches and claimed 266 wickets during his illustrious career.
A revolution in Indian cricket
Bedi was an architect of sorts for Indian cricket. He made his international debut in 1966 and represented India until 1979. Bedi was known for his mastery of flight and spin, employing subtle variations to outsmart batsmen. His leadership was instrumental in India’s historic 1971 series victory against England when he captained the team.
Condolences pour in
The news of Bedi’s demise has prompted an outpouring of condolences and tributes from the cricketing fraternity. Legendary India spinner Anil Kumble took to social media to express his grief, highlighting Bedi’s unwavering support and valuable insights.
“Deeply saddened to hear the loss of Bishan Paaji. He was someone who always had my back and who genuinely shared his thoughts on the game. Cricketing fraternity will miss him dearly. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones,” Kumble posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Deeply saddened to hear the loss of Bishan Paaji. He was someone who always had my back and who genuinely shared his thoughts on the game. Cricketing fraternity will miss him dearly. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) October 23, 2023
Former India opener Gautam Gambhir also paid his respects, acknowledging Bedi’s enduring contribution to the sport.
“Extremely saddened by the passing of Bishan Singh Bedi ji. His immense contribution to cricket will forever be remembered. May god give strength to his family and loved ones!” tweeted Gambhir.
Extremely saddened by the passing of Bishan Singh Bedi ji. His immense contribution to cricket will forever be remembered. May god give strength to his family and loved ones! pic.twitter.com/zDpSd4aUp2
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) October 23, 2023
India’s premier fast bowler, Mohammed Siraj, expressed his condolences, hailing Bedi as a legend of Indian cricket. Siraj wrote, “A legend of Indian cricket. RIP Bishan Singh Bedi Sir. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones”
A legend of Indian cricket. RIP Bishan Singh Bedi Sir. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones 🙏
— Mohammed Siraj (@mdsirajofficial) October 23, 2023
Former India batter Suresh Raina emphasized the profound impact Bedi had on the sport.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of the cricket legend, Shri Bishan Singh Bedi Ji. His impact on the sport is immeasurable, and my heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” Raina posted on ‘X’.
Deeply saddened by the passing of the cricket legend, Shri Bishan Singh Bedi Ji. His impact on the sport is immeasurable, and my heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) October 23, 2023
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan expressed his sorrow and described Bedi as one of the best and wrote: “Bishan singh bedi One of our best is no more. It’s a loss to our cricketing fraternity. My deep condolences to his family.”
Bishan singh bedi One of our best is no more. It’s a loss to our cricketing fraternity. My deep condolences to his family.
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) October 23, 2023
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Here are some more reactions:
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 🙏 pic.twitter.com/oYdJU0cBCV
— BCCI (@BCCI) October 23, 2023
Deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Bishan Singh Bedi Sir, a legend and a true ambassador of the sport. His contribution to Indian cricket will be remembered forever.
My heartfelt condolences to his family. pic.twitter.com/VKGb5lCEcO— DK (@DineshKarthik) October 23, 2023
Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of the legendary spinner and former skipper, Bishan Singh Bedi ji. He will always be remembered for his invaluable contributions to Indian cricket. My heartfelt condolences to his family. 🙏 #RIPBishanSinghBedi pic.twitter.com/ZsWOjVKIX8
— Yusuf Pathan (@iamyusufpathan) October 23, 2023
The 'Sardar of Spin' is no more. Saddened by the news of Shri Bishan Singh Bedi ji passing away. He'll always be among the best bowlers to have represented India. My condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/guGRBynwTR
— Mithali Raj (@M_Raj03) October 23, 2023
Speechless, no words can express the pain. My Guru ,my mentor you will live in our hearts forever thank you for all the love ,blessings & guidance . Wahe Guru Mehr Kare Om Shanti our very own Bishen Pajji 🙏🙏 #bishanbedi pic.twitter.com/j4JOaVmLDa
— Madan Lal (@MadanLal1983) October 23, 2023
My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends during this challenging moment. @BishanBedi sir's memory will always hold a special place in our hearts. Indian cricket will forever be grateful for his contributions. 🙏#BishanBedi #CricketLegend pic.twitter.com/DSFcWhCtrp
— Pragyan Ojha (@pragyanojha) October 23, 2023
Bishan paji 💔 RIP #bishanbedi 🙏 condolences to my brother @Imangadbedi and family . Waheguru
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) October 23, 2023
Rest in peace Paaji. You were a giant. Your contributions will always be remembered. The numerous conversations I’d with you helped me a lot in my cricket career #BishanBedi pic.twitter.com/VwrI1aroe9
— Dodda Ganesh | ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗಣೇಶ್ (@doddaganesha) October 23, 2023
