Bhagwath Chandrasekhar Biography: Life Story, Career, Records, Family & Achievements
Introduction
Bhagwath Subramanya Chandrasekhar, fondly called B.S. Chandrasekhar, is regarded as one of India’s greatest leg-spin bowlers. A member of India’s legendary spin quartet alongside Bishan Singh Bedi, E.A.S. Prasanna, and S. Venkataraghavan, Chandrasekhar was admired for his unorthodox action, pace variations, and ability to deliver match-winning spells. Despite being affected by polio in his right arm during childhood, he turned that adversity into strength, creating a unique and deceptive bowling style that baffled the world’s best batsmen.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Bhagwath Subramanya Chandrasekhar
- Date of Birth: 17 May 1945
- Birthplace: Mysore (now Mysuru), Karnataka, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 65 kg
- Hair Color: Black (later grey)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Chandrasekhar grew up in Mysore and contracted polio at the age of six, which left his right arm withered. However, he used this limitation to his advantage, developing a unique whippy leg-spin action. His resilience and creativity led him to become one of India’s most effective bowlers of his era.
Domestic Career
- Represented Karnataka in domestic cricket.
- Established himself as a consistent wicket-taker in Ranji Trophy, earning his place in the Indian Test side.
International Career
Debut Matches
- Test Debut: 21 January 1964 vs England.
- ODI Debut: 13 July 1974 vs England.
Career Highlights
- Played 58 Tests, taking 242 wickets at an average of 29.74.
- Known for match-winning spells, particularly against England and Australia.
- Instrumental in India’s overseas victories in the 1970s.
Iconic Performances
- 6/38 vs England at The Oval (1971): Helped India register their first-ever Test series win in England.
- 7/72 vs England (Madras, 1973): A devastating spell that dismantled the opposition.
- Known for turning matches single-handedly with his unpredictable leg-spin.
Records & Achievements
- Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1972).
- Took 16 five-wicket hauls and 2 ten-wicket match hauls in Tests.
- Padma Shri recipient (1972).
- Played a key role in India’s historic overseas Test wins in England, Australia, and the West Indies.
Bowling Style & Strengths
- Specialized in leg-spin, googly, and top-spin with extra pace off the pitch.
- Used his polio-affected arm to generate awkward bounce and variation.
- Known for attacking bowling, always aiming to take wickets rather than contain runs.
Retirement & Later Life
- Retired from international cricket in 1979.
- Lived a low-profile life post-retirement, occasionally appearing at cricket events and giving insights about spin bowling.
Personal Life
Chandrasekhar has kept his personal life private, focusing primarily on cricket during and after his career.
Legacy
B.S. Chandrasekhar is remembered as one of the most fearless and attacking leg-spinners in cricket history. His ability to overcome physical adversity and dominate world-class batsmen made him a true inspiration. He remains an icon of Indian cricket’s golden spin era and a symbol of resilience.
FAQs
Q1: How many wickets did Chandrasekhar take in Test cricket?
He took 242 wickets in 58 Test matches.
Q2: What was Chandrasekhar’s most famous performance?
His 6/38 at The Oval in 1971, which helped India secure their first Test series win in England.
Q3: Was Chandrasekhar part of India’s spin quartet?
Yes, along with Bishan Singh Bedi, E.A.S. Prasanna, and S. Venkataraghavan.
Q4: Did Chandrasekhar suffer from any health condition?
Yes, he contracted polio in childhood, which left his right arm weak, but it became his strength as a bowler.
Q5: What awards did he receive?
He was a Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1972) and a Padma Shri awardee (1972).
