Calcutta: One of the most memorable triumphs of Team India at Eden Gardens was the epic 171-run win by the Sourav Ganguly-led side against Steve Waugh’s all-conquering Aussies, in the second Test of the three-match series back in 2001.

But, about 16 years earlier, India had scripted another memorable Test victory at the Eden, against a powerful West Indies side led by Clive Lloyd.

For Bhagwath Chandrasekhar, who played a significant role along with Bishan Singh Bedi and Gundappa Viswanath, that encounter is still fresh in his minds.

Talking to reporters after being felicitated by the Cricket Association of Bengal as part of the Eden’s 150 years’ celebrations, on Monday, the legendary leg-spinner recalled: “Playing at the Eden for any cricketer is a memorable experience. I don’t think I’ll ever forget the Test versus West Indies (the 1974-75 one)… It was an unforgettable match…”

India had beaten West Indies in that Test by 85 runs. Chasing 310 to win, the Caribbeans were all out for 224 in their second innings with Bedi and Chandrasekhar sharing seven wickets amongst themselves.

Chandrasekhar also spoke highly of Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi’s captaincy in that game. “The way he led the team in that match was absolutely sensational. I would say Pataudi was the best ever captain I’ve seen… Very attacking…”

If Pataudi was the best captain, then Ken Barrington of England is one of the finest ever batsmen because it was extremely difficult to get him out, Chandrasekhar opined. “It was extremely difficult to dismiss Barrington. He was a solid player. Given the way he batted, bowlers used to feel they were just not bowling well… He would make them feel so…” he said.

When it comes to the all-time great spinners, Chandrasekhar mentioned Shane Warne, Anil Kumble, Bedi and Erapalli Prasanna.

“It’s difficult to say who among these four were the best. But if you ask me, I would say the four of them are the best I’ve seen,” he made it clear.