Bishan Singh Bedi Biography: Life Story, Career, Records, Family & Achievements
Introduction
Bishan Singh Bedi was one of India’s greatest left-arm spinners, celebrated for his artistry, flight, and deceptive variations. A member of India’s legendary spin quartet (alongside Erapalli Prasanna, Bhagwat Chandrasekhar, and Srinivas Venkataraghavan), Bedi was admired for his elegant bowling action and cricketing intellect. Beyond his playing days, he was also known for his outspoken views, coaching stints, and contributions to Indian cricket.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Bishan Singh Bedi
- Date of Birth: 25 September 1946
- Birthplace: Amritsar, Punjab, India
- Died: 23 October 2023 (aged 77), Delhi, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Libra
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm)
- Hair Color: Black (later wore colorful turbans, a style symbol)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Born in Amritsar, Punjab, Bishan Singh Bedi was drawn to cricket from a young age. His natural talent as a left-arm spinner was evident early, and he soon became a standout performer in domestic cricket, paving his way to the national side.
Domestic Career
- Represented Delhi and Northern Punjab in Ranji Trophy.
- Captained Delhi to multiple Ranji Trophy victories.
- Played county cricket in England for Northamptonshire, gaining international exposure.
International Career
Debut Matches
- Test Debut: 31 December 1966 vs West Indies.
- ODI Debut: 13 July 1974 vs England.
Career Highlights
- Played 67 Tests, taking 266 wickets at an average of 28.71.
- Played 10 ODIs, taking 7 wickets.
- Renowned for his flight, loop, and accuracy rather than pace or spin alone.
- Became India’s captain in 1976, leading the team in 22 Tests.
Records & Achievements
- Member of the famous Indian spin quartet.
- Once held the record for most Test wickets by an Indian spinner (before surpassed by Kapil Dev).
- Bowled one of the most economical 12-over spells in ODIs (8 maidens, 1/6 vs East Africa, 1975 World Cup).
- Awarded Padma Shri (1970) and CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award (2004).
Captaincy
- Captained India in 22 Tests, winning 6.
- Notable for his sportsmanship and willingness to call out unfair practices, even forfeiting matches when he felt conditions were unsafe or unsporting.
Post-Retirement & Coaching
- Served as coach of the Indian cricket team (1990).
- Worked with Delhi’s domestic sides, grooming young cricketers like Maninder Singh and others.
- Known for his candid and sometimes controversial opinions on cricketing issues.
Personal Life
Bishan Singh Bedi was married to Anju Bedi. His son, Angad Bedi, is a well-known Bollywood actor, and his daughter Neha is also part of the entertainment industry.
Legacy
Bedi is remembered not just as a bowling artist, but as a man of integrity who valued cricket’s spirit above everything. His elegant style of bowling remains a template for aspiring spinners, and his leadership helped India transition during the 1970s. His passing in 2023 marked the loss of one of cricket’s true gentlemen.
FAQs
Q1: How many wickets did Bishan Singh Bedi take in Tests?
He took 266 Test wickets in 67 matches.
Q2: Was Bishan Singh Bedi part of the spin quartet?
Yes, along with Prasanna, Chandrasekhar, and Venkataraghavan, he formed India’s legendary spin quartet.
Q3: Did Bedi captain India?
Yes, he captained India in 22 Test matches between 1976 and 1978.
Q4: What awards did Bishan Singh Bedi receive?
He was awarded the Padma Shri (1970) and the CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award (2004).
Q5: Who is Bishan Singh Bedi’s son?
His son, Angad Bedi, is a popular Bollywood actor.
