BENGALURU: Bishan Singh Bedi, cricketer par excellence, a fearless leader on and off the field. He was a man who brought the team together, in victory and defeat.
In an interview with TOI a few years ago, batting stalwart GR Viswanath had said on team bonding, "In Test cricket, we used to meet in the bar (after the day's play). Bishan (Singh Bedi) was the person who brought us together. We would meet at 7pm and discuss what happened that day, we wouldn't go deep into what might happen the next day. Tomorrow happens, but you don't sit on it. Everyone, irrespective of whether they drank or not, came. Nobody questioned."
The late sixties was the golden period in Indian cricket with the emergence of the spin quartet of EAS Prasanna, BS Chandrasekhar, S Venkataraghavan and Bedi. In fact the last three made their India debut in the span of two years - 1964 to 66. Bedi was the last among the four to make his debut. For a decade and a half, the quartet un leashed terror with craft and skill, even as they jostled for a place in the team.
Among the many close bonds that Bedi developed was with his senior Prasanna.
Overcome by emotions, Prasanna said, "I don't know how to react. I'm lost for words. The passing of Bishan is a great loss for Indian cricket. For over five decades we shared more than friendship."
"He was a wonderful human being, who despite his tremendous achievements remained humble and grounded," the 83-yearold said, "He was always there when someone reached out to him. His contribution to Indian cricket is unparalleled. He's worn many hats with distinction - champion player, captain, manager and selector among others. The roles have been plenty but the goal was always betterment of Indian cricket."
"I'm deeply shocked by the demise of Bedi," legendary leg spinner Chandrasekhar said. Recalling his association with Bedi, the 78-year-old said, "Every tour with him was enjoyable. He was so full of life and such great company. He was a very good-hearted person, on and off the field."
Chandra added, "There was no rivalry between us. We celebrated with each other."
