Big Highlight/ Indian cricket icon Bishan Singh Bedi passes away at age 77

Bishan Singh Bedi, the former Indian cricketer, has sadly passed away at the age of 77. During his cricket career, which spanned from 1967 to 1979, he represented India in 67 Test matches, where he claimed 266 wickets. He also showcased his skills in 10 One-Day Internationals, taking a total of seven wickets.

3 things you need to know

• Bishan Singh Bedi made his international debut for India in 1967
• He also served as the captain of the Indian team in a controversial tenure
• After leaving cricket, he plied his trade as a coach briefly in the 1990s

Bishan Singh Bedi's euphoric rise in international cricket

Bishan Singh Bedi embarked on his cricketing journey at a tender age, making his debut for Northern Punjab at just 15 years old. After a successful stint of six years with Northern Punjab, Bedi made a transition to Delhi. He represented Delhi in the Ranji Trophy from 1968 to 1981. During the 1974-75 season, he achieved a remarkable feat by securing a record-breaking 64 wickets in the Ranji Trophy. 

In addition to his domestic and international cricket career, Bedi also ventured into County Cricket, where he played for Northamptonshire. His contributions to the sport were acknowledged with prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri in 1970 and the C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004.

Bedi, successor of the legendary Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi

In 1976, Bishan Singh Bedi assumed the role of captain for the Indian cricket team, taking over from Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi. Under his leadership, India achieved notable successes, including their first Test victory during his captaincy against the West Indies in the 3rd Test of the 1976 series. In that match, India scored a then-record 406 runs in the fourth innings.

This triumph was followed by a 2-0 series victory over New Zealand when they played at home. However, Bedi's captaincy saw some challenging periods, with successive Test series losses to England (3-1 at home), Australia (3-2 away), and Pakistan (2-0 away). As a result of these setbacks, Bedi was replaced as captain by Sunil Gavaskar.