Kapil Dev, a legendary figure in Indian cricket, continues to inspire generations. His contributions to the sport are immeasurable, both on and off the field. This comprehensive biography delves into his remarkable life and career.
Wiki/Biography
Kapil Dev Nikhanj entered the world on 6 January 1959 (Age: 64 years, as of 2023) in Chandigarh, India. His father, Ram Lal Nikhanj, hailed from Dipalpur, Pakistan, while his mother, Raj Kumari, was born in Pakpattan, Pakistan. The family, including Kapil’s four sisters, relocated to India during the partition, initially settling in Fazilka, Punjab. His two brothers were born after the family’s move to India. His father was a successful timber merchant. The family later moved to Chandigarh, where Kapil received his education at D.A.V. school and began his cricket training under Desh Prem Azad.
Physical Appearance
- Height: 6’2”
- Weight: 80 kg
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
- Hair Color: Salt & Pepper
Family
Kapil Dev was born into a Jat family. His parents were Ram Lal Nikhanj and Raj Kumari Lajwanti. He has two brothers: Ramesh (younger, residing in Sector 9, Chandigarh) and Bhushan (elder, residing in Sector 27, Chandigarh), and four sisters: Naresh, Manju, Neeru, and Pinky Gill. In 1980, he married Romi Bhatia, an entrepreneur, and they have a daughter, Amiya Dev (born in 1996).
Career
Kapil Dev’s cricketing journey began with his domestic debut for Haryana against Punjab, where he made an immediate impact. He claimed 6 wickets, restricting Punjab to a mere 63 runs. His impressive performances continued, including his first 10-wicket haul during the 1977-78 domestic season. His international Test debut came on October 16, 1978, against Pakistan in Faisalabad. While his initial performance wasn’t outstanding, his pace and bouncers impressed. He quickly showcased his all-round capabilities, scoring the fastest Test half-century in just 33 balls during the same tour. His One Day International (ODI) debut followed on October 1, 1978, against Pakistan, although his early ODI career wasn’t as dominant.
He achieved his maiden Test century of 126 runs against the West Indies in Delhi in January 1979. His consistent performances cemented his position as India’s premier fast bowler. His impactful contributions included pivotal wins against Pakistan in 1979, where he scored 69 runs in Mumbai and took his first 10-wicket haul in the fifth Test. He became the youngest cricketer to achieve 100 Test wickets and 1000 runs in just 25 matches. Even while battling a groin injury during India’s 1980-81 tour of Australia, he played a crucial role in helping India draw the series.
His stellar performances continued, notably during India’s tour of England before the 1983 World Cup, where he scored a century (130 runs) and took a five-wicket haul, earning him the Man of the Series award. He was appointed captain of the Indian team before the 1983 World Cup, succeeding Sunil Gavaskar. Against all odds, Kapil led India to victory in the 1983 World Cup. His match-winning 175 runs against Zimbabwe was a defining moment.
Post-World Cup, his captaincy saw India reach the semi-final of the 1987 World Cup. He retired from international cricket in 1994.
Records
Test Cricket
- At one point, held the record for the highest wicket-taker in the world.
- Only player to achieve 4000 Test runs and 400 wickets.
- Highest number of innings (184) without being run out.
- Youngest cricketer to take 100, 200, and 300 Test wickets.
- Only captain to take a 9-wicket haul in a Test innings.
ODI Cricket
- Highest wicket-taker (253 wickets) until his retirement in 1994.
- Highest ODI score while batting at number 6 (against Zimbabwe in the 1983 World Cup).
Controversies
Kapil Dev faced controversies, including allegations of match-fixing and tax-related issues. However, many of these allegations were later dismissed or resolved.
Awards/Honours
Kapil Dev’s achievements have been widely recognized through numerous awards:
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| Arjun Award | 1979 |
| Padma Shri | 1982 |
| Wisden Cricketer of the Year | 1983 |
| Padma Bhushan | 1991 |
| Wisden Indian Cricketer of the Century | 2002 |
| ICC Cricket Hall of Fame | 2010 |
Favourite Things
- Cricketers: Ian Botham, Don Bradman, Imran Khan, Richard Hadlee
- Food: Cheese, Thai and Italian Cuisines
Style/Quotient
Known for his distinctive style, both on and off the field, Kapil Dev’s car collection included a Porsche Panamera, Mercedes-Benz vehicles, and a Toyota Fortuner. His business ventures include restaurants and investments in various companies.
Salary
During his tenure as coach of the Indian National Cricket Team (1999-2000), Kapil Dev reportedly earned ₹5 lakh per match plus bonuses.
Facts
Many interesting facts and anecdotes surround Kapil Dev’s life, including his accidental entry into cricket, his close friendship with Sunil Gavaskar, his proposal to Romi Bhatia on a Mumbai local train, his love for golf, and his appearances in Bollywood films.
