Name Hindi: बिशन सिंह बेदी / Gender Man
Bishan Singh Bedi: Biography
Bishan Singh Bedi, born on September 25, 1946 in Amritsar, Punjab, is an iconic character of Indian cricket. Rightfully known as one of the most stalwart protagonists of spin bowling in the history of cricket, he has remarkably contributed to the glory and rise of Indian cricket over his career span between 1967-1979. Besides being a legendary cricketer, Bedi is also a former coach of the Indian national team, leading them at crucial tournaments and series throughout his coaching career.
Early Life & Career Beginnings
Bedi was enthusiastic about cricket from a very young age. He started playing this sport passionately at school level which gave him early recognition for his talent.
- In 1955, when he was just nine years old, his prodigious left-arm spin caught Kagawa’s attention – the famous Amritsar spinner who nurtured Bedi under his able guidance and played a significant role in polishing his raw talent.
- The year 1959 marked another noteworthy moment in Bedi’s life when he made his first-class debut against Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) for Northern India under 19s Cricket Team. His unique spinning skills got noticed by veterans immediately inspiring further opportunities for him.
- Climbing up successively through domestic levels in Punjab, he debuted into international platform representing India in June 1967 for Test Matches.
HIGHLIGHTS OF BEDI’S CRICKET CAREER:
Remarkable Achievements as Player
A powerhouse for slow left-arm orthodox spin bowler, Bishan Singh Bedi ruled Test Cricket fields between 1967-1979.
- He is one of the proud members forming a quartet popularly known as The Spin Quartet, along with E.A.S. Prasanna, Bhagwath Chandrasekhar and Srinivasaraghavan Venkataraghavan making India truly ‘Spin Land’ during his whole cricketing tenure.
- In his distinguished international career span, Bishan Singh played 67 test matches for Indian Cricket Team where he picked up 266 wickets at an astounding average of 28.71.
- Besides this, his first-class cricket records also look impressive with 1560 wickets from exactly 370 matches under his name, which is still among the best in the world till date.
- Bedi was not only well-known for his impeccable bowling skills but also considered to be a very ‘Just’ player who never feared to speak against unfair elements inside or outside field. He raised voice publicly by protesting against English county’s decision of signing controversial foreign recruits who broke International Cricket Board’s rulings.
Career as Coach
With vast experience and knowledge about nuances of the game, Bedi went ahead to coach the Indian national team after retirement. The results under his guidance were mixed – there were ups and downs.
- In entire coaching stint from1990 till early200s, India showcased laudable performances on various occasions like reaching semi-finals of ICC World Cup ’96.
- However, several controversies involving him and cricketers led to deviations thus leading towards end of his coaching career. I.e., public spat occurred between him & Navjot Singh Sidhu that ended in latter abandoning ongoing England Tour soon afterwards – was a steep point of crisis.
Beyond Cricket: Advocacy and Current Endeavors
Apart from cricket, Bedi is also known to be vocal about various issues of social importance. He has spoken against corruption within the game on numerous occasions and continues to actively commentate on games in India. Currently, he invests his time as a mentor for young talents aspiring to play cricket at international levels.
In Conclusion
In simple words Bishan Singh Bedi was, is and will always remain an iconic pillar holding Indian Cricket edifice with utmost dignity. His significant contributions as player, coach or mentor have been beyond commendable that sustained over years even after retirement – thus grabbing him deserved place among all-time greats!!!
