Bishan Singh Bedi dead – Indian cricket legend dies aged 77 after long illness

LEGENDARY cricketer and spinner Bishan Singh Bedi has died aged 77.

The former Indian skipper was battling age-related illnesses and had undergone a few surgeries in recent years.

He is survived by his wife Anju, and two children, Neha and Angad.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to write a tribute to the legendary slow-arm spinner.

It wrote: "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."

Indian Sports Minister Anurag Thakur also expressed his condolences on the demise of the ace spinner.

"This is a huge loss for the cricket world," he said.

Amit Shah, minister of Home Affairs, wrote: "Bedi Ji will live in our memories not only through his contribution to the cricketing world but also as the master of crafty bowling who could weave magic on the pitch.

"My heartfelt condolences to his family members and his fans in this hour of grief."

Bedi captained the Indian cricket team during 22 of his 67 tests - and took 266 wickets.

He played his debut match in 1966 against West Indies and declared his career playing test cricket against England at The Oval in 1979.

The former Indian skipper also played English county cricket for Northamptonshire and concluded his career with 1560 first-class wickets.

Bedi was a slow left-arm orthodox bowler - and is dubbed as one of the finest-ever spinners in the history of the game.

Previously, former Indian wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani said: "Bedi has so much variation in his game, he could bowl six different deliveries in an over."

Legendary Australian cricketer Sir Donald Bradman once said Bedi was a "real study for cricket connoisseur" and is among the finest bowlers of his kind.

In 1970, Bedi was given the prestigious Padma Shri Award for his contributions to Indian Cricket.

Has had a stand to his name at the famous Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.