Kapil Dev’s viral 'abduction' video was part of an Ad Campaign, Gambhir reveals on social media

In a recent viral video that created buzz through the cricketing world, the legendary Indian cricketer and World Cup-winning captain, Kapil Dev, was seen in what appeared to be a distressing situation. The footage depicted him being led into a room by two unidentified individuals, prompting concerns about his well-being. One prominent figure in the cricketing fraternity, former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, took to social media to express his apprehensions regarding the video's authenticity, questioning whether it was a genuine incident or perhaps an elaborate advertising stunt.

As it turns out, this intriguing video was indeed part of a strategic advertising campaign orchestrated by the renowned streaming platform Disney Plus Hotstar. The platform, in a bid to engage and excite cricket enthusiasts, announced a unique opportunity for fans to watch the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 for free, even without a subscription plan. To add a touch of nostalgia and cricketing prestige to their campaign, they enlisted none other than The Haryana Hurricane himself, the iconic captain who led India to World Cup glory in 1983.

Gambhir, who had initially ignited the speculation by sharing the video, later took to his 'X' account to put all doubts to rest. In his out-of-characteristic style, Gambhir playfully commended the 64-year-old's performance in the ad campaign, quipping, 

"Areh @therealkapildev paaji well played! Acting ka World Cup bhi aap hi jeetoge! Ab hamesha yaad rahega ki ICC Men's Cricket World Cup is free on @DisneyPlusHS mobile,"

Kapil Dev, a magician with both bat and ball

Kapil Dev's name is engraved in cricketing history as a true all-rounder. He commenced his international career in October 1978 and went on to represent India in 131 Test matches, amassing 5,248 runs and scalping 438 wickets in the longest format. In the One-Day Internationals arena, the indomitable all-rounder donned the national colours in 225 games, clinching 253 wickets and scoring 3,783 runs.

One particular moment that will forever be etched in the minds of cricket aficionados is his iconic innings of 175 runs against Zimbabwe in the 1983 World Cup. It was a knock of sheer brilliance and determination that played a pivotal role in India's historic World Cup triumph, as they defeated the mighty West Indies in the final. A recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awards, the former India all-rounder bid adieu to his illustrious playing career in 1994, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of cricketing enthusiasts.