Legendary India left-arm spinner and former Test captain Bishan Singh Bedi has reportedly died at the age of 77.

Bedi played 67 Test matches and ten ODIs for India between 1966 and 1979. He took 266 Test wickets and sits eighth on the all-time list of Test wicket-takers for India. He also captained India on 22 occasions, leading them to six wins during his tenure. His first Test victory as captain came against the West Indies when India chased a then-record total of 406 in the fourth innings.

I have very sad news to share: the legendary Bishen Bedi, arguably the greatest left arm spinner this country has produced, a larger than life sportsman who always fought the cricket board establishment for players rights, has passed away. Will be much missed. RIP. pic.twitter.com/CT8OPkD0mq

— Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) October 23, 2023

Bedi was an outspoken supporter or players’ rights, and campaigned for better player remuneration and treatment over the course of his career. He also went on to coach India after his playing career finished, famously threatening to “dump the team into the sea” after a disappointing defeat in 1990.

Bedi’s best Test bowling performance came against Australia at Eden Gardens in 1969. He took seven wickets for 98 runs in Australia’s first innings, with his victims including Bill Lawry and Ian Chappell. His only ten wicket haul in a Test match came in 1977, when he took five wickets in each innings, again against Australia, at Perth.

In 2008, Bishan was named by Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack as one of the five best cricketers ever to have not been named Wisden Cricketer of the Year.

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