Spin and pace come face to face

By Our Sports Reporter

CHENNAI, JUNE 16. `Great' is a pretty misused term these days, but definitely not in this case. Greatness sits lightly on Dennis Keith Lillee and Bishan Singh Bedi.

Lillee, the supreme fast bowler, Bedi, the classical spinner. If the Aussie could put fright into the batsmen with his speed, bounce, and cut, the Indian killed 'em softly with his flight, turn and cunning.

And pace and spin met with a smiling face at the MRF's Coaches Seminar here on Friday.

Bedi listened with rapt attention as Lillee spoke about something that is very close to his heart - fast bowling. Soon, during the lunch break, the two greeted each other with much warmth.

The Sardar could not hide his admiration for the Aussie. Speaking to The Hindu, he said, `` Great technique, a complete fast bowler. The notable thing about him was he was extremely cruel on himself, that is how every fast bowler should be. He has continued contributing to the game after he has finished. In fact, the world of cricket is indebted to this man. When someone like Richard Hadlee charged in to bowl, he had Lillee on his mind. That's the kind of impact he made. He's a role model without question.''

What does Lillee have to say about Bedi? ``Well, he was one of the finest spinners of all time, very clever. Always gave his very best. And is a lovely bloke as well. It is such a delight to come across him. Coming to left-arm spinners, I would rate him and England's Derek Underwood at the very top.''

Bedi's favourite fast bowlers are Lillee, Michael Holding and Richard Hadlee.

Both the greats agreed that it was never too late to learn. ``We are still learning,'' they revealed in one voice.

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