Celebrating Kapil Dev: A Cricket Legend Turns 67

Kapil Dev, the legendary cricketer and captain of India's 1983 World Cup-winning team, celebrates his 67th birthday. Known for his exceptional skills as a fast-bowling all-rounder, Kapil's cricketing journey is marked by numerous records and achievements. From leading India to its first ICC trophy to his impressive statistics in both Test and ODI formats, his legacy continues to inspire. Discover more about his remarkable career and contributions to Indian cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 6, 2026, 15:41 IST

Birthday Wishes from BCCI

On Tuesday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) extended heartfelt birthday wishes to Kapil Dev, the former Indian cricketer and captain of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, as he celebrated his 67th birthday. View the message here.

1983 World Cup Triumph

Kapil Dev is celebrated as one of India's finest fast-bowling all-rounders. His most significant achievement came when he captained India to victory in the 1983 World Cup, overcoming the formidable West Indies at Lord's. This victory marked him as the first Indian captain to secure an ICC trophy, solidifying his legacy in cricket history.

Test Career Overview

Kapil made his Test debut against Pakistan in Faisalabad in October 1978. Throughout his illustrious Test career, he participated in 131 matches and batted in 227 innings, claiming 434 wickets with an impressive average of 29.64. His record includes 17 four-wicket hauls, 23 five-wicket hauls, and two ten-wicket hauls, making him the third-highest wicket-taker for India in Test cricket and the leading fast bowler.

One Day International (ODI) Achievements

Kapil's ODI journey began against Pakistan in Quetta in October 1978. Over his career, he played 225 matches and batted in 221 innings, securing 253 wickets at an average of 27.45. His ODI records include three four-wicket hauls and one five-wicket haul, ranking him as the sixth-highest wicket-taker for India in ODIs, following Javagal Srinath, Ajit Agarkar, and Zaheer Khan.

Overall International Records

In total, Kapil Dev is the fourth-highest wicket-taker for India across all formats, having played 356 matches and taken 687 wickets with an average of 28.83. He is surpassed only by Harbhajan Singh, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Anil Kumble.

Batting Milestones

In addition to his bowling prowess, Kapil accumulated 5248 runs in Test cricket, including eight centuries and 27 half-centuries. In ODIs, he scored 3783 runs, featuring one century and 14 half-centuries.