Top Feature/ The wizard of emerald isle: Rewinding the late Bishan Singh Bedi's top cricketing moments

In the world of cricket, some names are etched in history, forever commemorated for their extraordinary talents and contributions to the sport. Bishan Singh Bedi, the former India cricketer who recently passed away at the age of 77, was undoubtedly one of these legends. His remarkable career left an indelible mark on the game, and as we bid adieu to this iconic figure, it's time to rewind the clock and revisit the top moments that defined Bishan Singh Bedi's cricketing journey.

3 things you need to know

• Bishan Singh Bedi represented India from 1966 to 1979
• He was awarded the Padma Shri award in 1970
• In a career spanning 20 years, Bedi took 1904 wickets across formats

Also Read: Indian cricket icon Bishan Singh Bedi passes away at age 77

A look at Bishan Singh Bedi's top cricketing moments 

Bishan Singh Bedi's contributions to the world of cricket were acknowledged and celebrated with various accolades and honors throughout his life. As we reflect on his incredible career, we remember a cricketer who not only mastered the art of spin bowling but also left an indomitable legacy in Indian cricket. His memory will forever be cherished by cricket enthusiasts and fans around the world, and his remarkable moments on the cricket field will continue to inspire generations to come. 

The Pioneer of Spin

Bishan Singh Bedi was more than just a cricketer; he was a maestro of spin bowling. Born in Amritsar in 1946, Bedi embarked on his cricketing journey at a young age, and his prowess in spin bowling quickly became evident. He donned the Indian jersey in 67 Test matches, where he mesmerized fans with his spin wizardry. Over the course of his career, he scalped 266 wickets, including 14 five-wicket hauls and one remarkable 10-wicket haul, showcasing his artistry in the bowling department.

The Golden Quartet of Spin

Bedi was an integral part of Indian cricket's golden quartet of spinners, a group that included Erapalli Prasanna, Bhagwat Chandrasekhar, and Srinivas Venkataraghavan. Together, they formed the core of India's formidable bowling unit for more than a decade, from 1966 to 1978. This quartet bamboozled batsmen around the world, leaving an indomitable legacy in the annals of the sport.

Historic Victories in England and West Indies

One of the most significant chapters in Bishan Singh Bedi's career was the historic triumphs India achieved in England and the West Indies during the 1970s. Bedi played an instrumental role in these memorable victories, and his exceptional skills as a spin bowler left a lasting impact on the cricketing world.

Masterful Performances Against Australia and New Zealand

Among his most memorable performances, Bedi's displays against Australia and New Zealand stand out prominently. In 1969, he made history by claiming 21 wickets against the Australian team, including his career-best figures of 7 wickets for just 98 runs. These remarkable feats demonstrated his ability to turn matches in India's favor with his crafty spin.

A Brief Stint as Team Manager

Even after his playing days, Bishan Singh Bedi remained closely connected to the sport. In 1990, he took on the role of the manager of the Indian cricket team during their tours of New Zealand and England. His experience and insights continued to benefit Indian cricket in this new capacity.