Bishan Singh Bedi dies at 77: Amit Shah condoles ‘master of crafty bowling who could weave magic on pitch’

New Delhi [India]: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday expressed grief on the demise of Amritsar-born legendary spinner Bishan Singh Bedi and said the former Indian cricket team captain will be remembered for his contributions to the cricketing world.

“Deeply saddened by the demise of the legendary spinner and former captain of the Indian cricket team Bishan Singh Bedi Ji. 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,” Shah posted on X.

The Home Minister also offered his heartfelt condolences to the late player’s family members and fans in the hour of grief.

Former Punjab Chief Minister and BJP leader Captain Amarinder Singh also expressed sadness on the passing of the cricketer and offered his sympathies to the player’s family and fans.

“Saddened to learn about the demise of Indian cricketing legend Bishan Singh Bedi today. The Former Indian team Captain gave India many memorable moments with his left-arm bowling. My heartfelt condolences are with his family and fans in this time of grief,” Singh posted on X.

Former India captain and legendary spinner passed away today at the age of 77 after a period of prolonged illness.

The Amritsar-born spinner, who played domestic cricket for Delhi, finished his career with 1,560 wickets in first-class cricket –more than any other Indian.

Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur confirmed the news. “Former India captain and spinner Bishan Singh Bedi has passed away. It is a very sad news. It’s a huge loss for India. He started so many camps in Himachal. I and the whole cricketing family stand with his family.”

He featured in 67 Tests for India between 1967 and 1979 and bagged 266 wickets. He also took seven wickets in 10 One-Day Internationals.

Bedi played Test cricket for India from 1966 to 1979 and he formed part of the famous Indian spin quartet (Bedi, EAS Prasanna, BS Chandrasekhar and S Venkataraghavan). The legendary spinner also captained the national side in 22 Test matches.

Bedi also represented Northamptonshire in English county cricket for many years. He was also honoured with the Padma Shri Award in 1970.