Kapil Dev, often regarded as one of the greatest cricketers in history, played a pivotal role in shaping Indian cricket. His leadership during India’s 1983 World Cup victory remains one of the most iconic moments in the sport’s history. Known as the “Haryana Hurricane,” Kapil Dev was a dynamic all-rounder, excelling both with the bat and ball. Here’s a detailed look into his life and career.
Kapil Dev Biography
- Full Name: Kapil Dev Ramlal Nikhanj
- Date of Birth: January 6, 1959
- Place of Birth: Chandigarh, India
- Father: Ram Lal Nikanj (Teak merchant)
- Mother: Rajkumari
- Siblings: 2 brothers (Ramesh Dev and Bhushan Dev) and 4 sisters
Kapil Dev Education
Kapil Dev attended D.A.V. School in Chandigarh during his early years. Though his exact educational qualifications are not publicly available, his cricketing talents quickly took center stage, and he focused on sports rather than formal education.
Kapil Dev Age (2025)
Kapil Dev will turn 66 years old in 2025, having been born on January 6, 1959.
Kapil Dev Height and Physical Stats
- Height: 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm)
- Weight: Around 80 kg
- Eye Color: Dark brown
Kapil Dev’s height and strong build made him an imposing figure both with the ball and as a batsman.
Kapil Dev Net Worth
Kapil Dev’s estimated net worth is $30 million (around ₹220 crore INR). His wealth comes from his cricketing career, endorsements, business ventures, and coaching roles.
Kapil Dev Family
- Wife: Romi Bhatia (married in 1980)
- Daughter: Amiya Dev (born January 16, 1996)
Kapil does not have a son. His daughter, Amiya, worked as an assistant director on the movie 83.
Kapil Dev Bat and Playing Style
Kapil Dev used the Slazenger WG bat, known for its shoulder-less design. He is often mistakenly associated with the Mongoose bat, but it was the Slazenger that he used to score his famous 175* against Zimbabwe during the 1983 World Cup.
Kapil was a hard-hitting lower-order batsman who could hit the ball to all parts of the field and was known for his powerful drives and hooks.
Kapil Dev Career Journey and Achievements
International Debut:
- Test Debut: October 16, 1978, against Pakistan at Faisalabad
- ODI Debut: August 31, 1978, against Pakistan in Amritsar
1983 World Cup Performance:
Kapil Dev’s leadership and all-round performance in the 1983 World Cup were crucial in India’s triumph. He scored 303 runs in 8 innings and took 12 wickets in the tournament. His 175* against Zimbabwe in a must-win match is one of the most iconic innings in World Cup history.
Retirement:
Kapil Dev retired in 1994 after playing:
- Tests: 131 matches
- ODIs: 225 matches
Kapil Dev Stats and Records
- Test Career:
- Matches Played: 131
- Runs Scored: 5248
- Wickets Taken: 434
- ODI Career:
- Matches Played: 225
- Runs Scored: 3783
- Wickets Taken: 275
Kapil Dev was the first cricketer to achieve the remarkable feat of scoring 5,000 Test runs and taking over 400 Test wickets.
Kapil Dev Jersey Number
Kapil Dev played in an era when players did not wear jersey numbers, so there was no specific number for him during his playing career.
Kapil Dev Records:
- 175 in 1983 World Cup*: Fastest at the time.
- First cricketer to score 5,000 Test runs and take over 400 Test wickets.
- 2nd fastest Test half-century by an Indian, scored in just 30 balls.
Awards and Honors:
- Arjuna Award (1979-80)
- Padma Shri (1982)
- Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1983)
- Padma Bhushan (1991)
- ICC Cricket Hall of Fame (2010)
- Wisden Indian Cricketer of the Year (2002)
Kapil Dev Hobbies and Personal Life:
- Hobbies: Kapil Dev enjoys playing golf, table tennis, and squash. He is also fond of watching movies.
- Drinking and Smoking: Kapil Dev does not smoke but drinks occasionally.
- Favorite Cricketers: Don Bradman and Ian Botham
Kapil Dev’s Teams
Kapil Dev played for the Indian national cricket team and represented his domestic team, Haryana. He also played county cricket for Northamptonshire (1981-83) and Worcestershire (1984-85).
Kapil Dev’s Coach and Food Habits
- Coach: Desh Prem Azad
- Food Habits: Non-vegetarian
Conclusion
Kapil Dev is undoubtedly one of the most influential figures in Indian cricket. His contributions as a cricketer, captain, and mentor have left an indelible mark on the sport. His leadership during India’s 1983 World Cup win, as well as his all-round performances, have made him a cricketing legend whose legacy continues to inspire future generations.
