New Delhi: The Indian Team, on Sunday during their World Cup match against England, paid tribute to the legendary spinner and former captain Bishan Singh Bedi by wearing black armbands. Bedi had passed away on October 23.
“Team India will be wearing Black Armbands today in memory of the legendary Bishan Singh Bedi who passed away on 23rd October, 2023,” the BCCI said in a statement shortly after the commencement of the World Cup contest here.
#TeamIndia will be wearing Black Armbands in memory of the legendary Bishan Singh Bedi before the start of play against England in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023.#CWC23 | #MenInBlue | #INDvENG
— BCCI (@BCCI) October 29, 2023
Survived by his wife Anju, daughter Neha, and son Angad, along with Gavas Inder Singh and daughter Gillinder from his previous marriage to Glenith Miles, Bedi had been unwell for over two years. During this period, the former cricketer underwent several surgeries, including one on his knee.
Bedi, who passed away last Monday after an extended period of illness at the age of 77, served as India’s captain for two years from 1976 to 1978, leading in 22 Tests. Over the span of 1967 to 1979, he represented the country in a total of 67 Tests and 10 ODIs. Additionally, Bedi captained India in four one-day internationals during the same timeframe.
Upon his retirement, Bedi held the record for India’s highest wicket-taker in Tests, with 266 dismissals at an average of 28.71.
Bedi contributed to India’s strategic spin quarter, alongside Bhagwath Chandrasekhar, Erapalli Prasanna, and Srinivas Venkataraghavan. On Sunday, England won the toss and invited India to bat.