- Full Name: Kapil Dev Ramlal Nikhanj
- Nickname: Haryana Hurricane
- Date of Birth: January 6, 1959
- Age: 66 years (as of 2025)
- Place of Birth: Chandigarh, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Religion: Hinduism
- Profession: Former Cricketer, Coach, Commentator, Businessman
- Batting Style: Right-handed
- Bowling Style: Right-arm fast-medium
- Role in Team: All-rounder
- Net Worth: Estimated around $30 million (as of 2025)
Early Life
Born into a Punjabi family in Chandigarh, where his mother, Raj Kumari, was a homemaker and his father, Ram Lal Nikhanj, was a building contractor, Kapil Dev took an early interest in cricket and quickly improved his skills under coach Desh Prem Azad. He received his early education at Chandigarh’s D.A.V. School, where his athletic ability first became apparent.
Despite coming from a lowly origin, Kapil rose through the Indian domestic cricket rankings thanks to his perseverance and innate athleticism. Playing for Haryana during the 1975–76 season marked the start of his cricket career. He immediately established himself as one of India’s most promising young fast bowlers with his domestic achievements.
Domestic Career
After making his debut with Haryana in first-class cricket, Kapil Dev left a lasting impression. In the 1978–79 season, he took 10 wickets against Bengal, one of his most notable performances. Throughout the domestic circuit, he gained recognition for his ability to bowl extended stretches with steady pace and control.
International Career
When Kapil played his first Test match against Pakistan in 1978, his explosive speed and strong batting instantly made an impression. He developed as India’s best fast bowler and an essential all-rounder over the ensuing years. When he led India to a historic Cricket World Cup triumph in 1983, it was a turning point in his career.
One of the best innings in ODI cricket is his 175* against Zimbabwe in the 1983 World Cup. He led India to victory against the powerful West Indies in the Lord’s final, ushering in a new era for Indian cricket. With 434 wickets, the most in the format at the time, Kapil concluded his Test career in 1994.
Playing Style
The epitome of an all-around player, Kapil Dev was a fearless, aggressive batsman who could turn games around. He combined speed, swing, and seam with the ball to trouble even the best batters. His athleticism on the field and ability to motivate his team made him a leader in every way.
Achievements and Awards
- 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)
- C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award (2013)
Personal Life
In 1980, Kapil Dev wed Romi Bhatia, a prosperous Delhi businesswoman. Romi supported Kapil through all the highs and lows of his cricketing career, and their relationship was characterised by mutual respect and encouragement. Amiya Dev, the couple’s daughter, was born in 1996. Kapil frequently has a strong relationship with his wife and daughter and is seen as a loving family man. He has balanced his professional accomplishments with strong family values, maintaining a very private life despite his notoriety.
Kapil’s interests are diverse off the pitch. He has played in many celebrity golf competitions and has a strong enthusiasm for the game. In addition, he has dabbled in business, owning a fitness company and a chain of restaurants. Being actively interested in charitable endeavours, Kapil has backed a number of causes, such as cancer awareness and child welfare. Outside of cricket, he is admired for his simplicity, humility, and commitment to social causes.
Legacy
Kapil Dev’s legacy in Indian cricket is legendary. His leadership in the 1983 World Cup win transformed the way cricket was perceived in India. He inspired innumerable young players and created the framework for India’s eventual dominance on the global stage. Even decades after his retirement, he remains an inspiration and role model for young cricketers around the world.
