Cricket fraternity wish Kapil Dev on his birthday

The first Indian skipper to guide the national team to a World Cup victory in 1983, Kapil Dev celebrates his birthday today. One of the greatest captains Team India has ever had, the cricket fraternity and many others wished the legend as he turned 59 today. Heralded as one of the greatest the game has ever seen, Kapil has left an indelible mark on the sport that will surely remain in the years to come.

He took over the captaincy reins in 1982 after he replaced Sunil Gavaskar to lead India in the 1983 World Cup. Ever since his debut in 1978, the charismatic and dynamic all-rounder made a benchmark for himself. Known for his lethal outswing that took the ball away from every right-handed batsman, he was equally able with the bat.

Coming down in the lower middle order, Kapil had the audacity to take on any bowling attack and is fondly remembered for changing the momentum in high-pressure matches. He was the first player to do the all-rounder’s double of 100 wickets and 1000 runs just at the age of 21.

Kapil has never been run out on his cricketing career

The industrious all-rounder had smashed 8 tons and 27 half-centuries with the bat and amassed 424 wickets in Test cricket. His best bowling figures till date are 9/83 whereas his career highest with the bat has been 163.

The powerhouse dynamo was recognized for his performances in the longest format of the game as his ODI achievements have been ordinary as he has only hit one century and collected 253 wickets in the 225 One-Day Internationals he has played. Interestingly, Kapil has never been run out in his entire career.

Kapil created history and scripted a new chapter in the history of Indian cricket. The cricket fraternity and the nation wish the World Cup winning skipper Kapil Dev on his 59th birthday.