Hyderabad: Top politicians and sports personalities paid rich tributes to legendary spinner Bishan Singh Bedi, who died on Monday, describing him as one of the best bowlers the country has produced and one who went out of the way to help youngsters.
Bedi, who played 67 Tests between 1967 to 1979 and took 266 wickets, died at his home here after a prolonged illness. He was 77 and is survived by his wife Anju, son Angad and daughter Neha.
Calling him "one of the greatest sporting icons", President Droupadi Murmu said Bedi was among those few who elevated spin bowling into an art. "In the demise of Bishan Singh Bedi, the country has lost one of its greatest sporting icons. Bishan Singh Bedi was among those few who elevated spin bowling into an art. He was also instrumental in the growth of cricket and cricketers. He was held in high esteem by the cricket fraternity. I convey my condolences to the members of his family, the large community of cricket lovers and his admirers," the President posted on X, formerly Twitter.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered his tributes and said Bedi would continue to inspire future generations of cricketers. "Deeply saddened by the passing of noted cricketer Shri Bishan Singh Bedi Ji. His passion for the sport was unwavering and his exemplary bowling performances led India to numerous memorable victories. He will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," PM posted on X.
The Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar remembered how on his first senior tour of England in 1990, Bedi's guidance was of immense help. "Sashu," he'd say with warmth that only he possessed. To Bishan Paaji, I wasn't just another cricketer; I was like a son. Under his nurturing guidance, I scored my first 100 in England. On chilly NZ evenings, we'd sit over meals, and I'd hang on to every story he told, every piece of wisdom he shared. Today, there's an echoing silence where his voice used to be. The world seems a little emptier without you, Paaji. Rest in the eternal peace you so deserve", Sachin Tendulkar wrote.
International Cricket Council also expressed condolence by posting on X. ICC wrote, "One of the greatest left-arm spinners of all time, former India captain, and an ICC Hall of Famer. RIP Bishan Bedi."
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also mourned the demise. "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," the BCCI posted on its X handle.
Expressing his condolences, Anil Kumble, former India captain and star spinner, said Bedi always supported him and shared his thoughts on the game. "Deeply saddened to hear the loss of Bishan Paaji. He was someone who always had my back and who genuinely shared his thoughts on the game. Cricketing fraternity will miss him dearly. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones (sic)," Kumble said.