Kapil Dev is a legendary Indian cricketer. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of the game. He was known for his aggressive batting, fast bowling, and inspirational leadership. He was born in Chandigarh, India, on January 6, 1959. He is currently 66 years old. His full name is Kapil Dev Ramlal Nikhanj. He follows the Hindu religion. His zodiac sign is Capricorn. He is approximately 6 feet tall. His weight was around 80 kilograms during his playing days. Kapil represented India, Haryana, Northamptonshire (county cricket), and captained India to its first-ever World Cup triumph.
Kapil Dev’s Career Statistics:
| Format | Matches | Runs | Best Score | Bat Avg | Wickets | Best Bowling | Bowl Avg | 5w/10w |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 131 | 5,248 | 163 | 31.05 | 434 | 9/83 | 29.64 | 23/2 |
| ODI | 225 | 3,783 | 175* | 23.79 | 253 | 5/43 | 27.45 | 1/0 |
| First Class | 275 | 11,356 | 193 | 32.75 | 835 | 9/83 | 27.09 | 37/6 |
| List A | 309 | 5,805 | 175* | 24.08 | 335 | 5/43 | 26.91 | 2/0 |
Kapil Dev’s Early Career:
Kapil Dev made his first-class debut for Haryana in 1975. He quickly gained attention for his raw pace and athleticism. He made his Test debut for India in 1978 against Pakistan. He was soon hailed as India’s first genuine fast bowler. His aggressive style and ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him a fixture in the Indian team throughout the 1980s.
Kapil Dev’s Domestic & County Career:
First Class Career:
He represented Haryana with distinction. He scored over 11,000 runs and took more than 800 wickets.
County Cricket:
He played for Northamptonshire in England. He gained valuable experience in seam-friendly conditions.
Domestic Legacy:
He mentored young cricketers and remained involved in Indian cricket post-retirement through coaching and commentary.
Kapil Dev’s International Career:
Test Career:
He debuted on October 16, 1978. He played this match against Pakistan. He became India’s highest wicket-taker in Tests (434) until overtaken by Anil Kumble.
ODI Career:
He debuted on October 1, 1978. He played this match against Pakistan. He played 225 ODIs. He was known for his explosive batting and clutch bowling.
Captaincy:
He led India to its first ICC Cricket World Cup title in 1983. He defeated the mighty West Indies in the final.
Kapil Dev’s Best Performances:
- He scored 175* vs Zimbabwe in the 1983 World Cup. It was one of the greatest ODI innings under pressure.
- He took 9/83 vs West Indies in Ahmedabad (1983). It was his best Test bowling figures.
- He claimed 5/43 vs Australia at Trent Bridge (1983 World Cup).
- He took 4 wickets in the 1983 World Cup final, leading India to victory.
Career Highlights:
- He was the winner of the 1983 ICC Cricket World Cup (Captain).
- He was the Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1983).
- He was the first player to score 5,000+ Test runs and take 400+ Test wickets.
- He was a Padma Shri (1979) and Padma Bhushan (1991) awardee.
- He was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame (2010).
FAQs:
Who is Kapil Dev?
Kapil Dev is a legendary Indian cricketer and all-rounder who captained India to its first World Cup win in 1983.
What is Kapil Dev’s date of birth?
He was born on January 6, 1959, in Chandigarh, India.
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