Top 5 orthodox left-arm spinners of all time

#2 Bishan Singh Bedi

Bishan Bedi's languid run-up and enchanting action elevated the art of spin bowling

In an era wherein the vast majority of cricket pundits play to the gallery and remain politically correct, Bishan Singh Bedi's candidness comes across as a breath of fresh air. Much like his propensity to critique from the heart, he was one of a kind during his heydays as well. The legendary spinner did not resort to the gimmicks of innovation to stand out.

With his flawless action and immaculate flight, the left-armer added elegance to the art of spin bowling. Alongside fellow icons Erapalli Prasanna, Bhagwat Chandrasekhar and Srinivas Venkataraghavan, he formed an indispensable component of the fabled spin quartet of the glorious 1970s.

One of only four Indians in ICC's Hall of Fame, Bedi left behind an indelible imprint on those deriving long lasting contentment from the wholesome nature of Test cricket. Aside from his remarkable exploits on home soil, the classical left-armer also played his part in India's memorable away Test victories in places ranging from Auckland and Port of Spain (twice) to Melbourne and Sydney.

Overall Career

Tests - 266 wickets from 67 matches at an average of 28.71 and strike-rate of 80.3 with 14 five-wicket hauls and 1 ten-wicket haul

First-class - 1560 wickets from 370 matches at an average of 21.69 and strike-rate of 57.9 with 106 five-wicket hauls and 20 ten-wicket hauls

List-A: 71 wickets from 72 matches at an average of 29.39 and economy-rate of 3.39 with 1 five-wicket haul