‘Huge loss for cricket,’ Anurag Thakur's heartfelt tribute on Bishan Singh Bedi’s death

Tributes have started pouring in for legendary cricketer Bishan Singh Bedi following his death on on Monday (October 23). Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur called the demise of Bedi a huge loss to Indian cricket. Sharing an image from one of the cricket matches in which Bedi played, Thakur sent his condolences to the bereaved family. “Former captain of the Indian cricket team, Bishan Singh Bedi is no more. This is a huge loss for cricket,” he said. 

"Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of legendary India spinner Bishan Singh Bedi. His contributions to Indian cricket and his artistry on the field will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire cricketing community,” Thakur wrote on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of legendary India spinner Bishan Singh Bedi. 

His contributions to Indian cricket and his artistry on the field will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire cricketing community. 

May his… pic.twitter.com/ZrxCAtRLMr

— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur)

The BCCI also paid homage to Bedi. “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,” said BCCI in a post on X. 

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)

Union Home Minister Amit Shah too expressed grief over the demise of Bedi. “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,” said Shah on the legandari spinner's demise. 

Bishan Singh Bedi passed away on Monday. He was 77 years old. Bedi made his international debut in 1967. During his cricket career which spanned from 1967 to 1979, Bedi played 67 Test matches for India, where he claimed 266 wickets as spin bowler. In 1967, Bedi took over as the captain of the Indian cricket team, succeeding Masoor Ali Khan Patuadi.