Published By: Sanchari Das

Happy Birthday, Kapil Dev (Jan. 6): Exploring the Lesser-Known Milestones That Still Stand Unmatched

Celebrating the birthday of a cricket legend, Kapil Dev, and his unforgettable legacy of records that still stand tall

Kapil Dev is a name that needs no introduction. He changed the face of Indian cricket forever. When he debuted in 1978 against Pakistan, few could have imagined the legacy he would leave behind. Over 16 years, he became a force to be reckoned with—a complete package of power, skill, and determination.

He scored 5248 Test runs, smashed 8 centuries, and took 434 wickets. In ODIs, he added 3783 runs and 253 wickets to his name. These are numbers few cricketers can dream of achieving.

Nicknamed the 'Haryana Hurricane,' Kapil wasn't just about stats—he was a leader. In 1983, he led India to its first-ever World Cup win. That victory didn't just make history—it sparked a cricket revolution. Kids from small towns started dreaming big, and Kapil showed them anything was possible. Some of his records are celebrated, but a few lesser-known gems remain unmatched even today.

India's first ODI century

India played its first ODI in 1974, but the wait for an Indian batter to score a century lasted nine years. It was Kapil Dev who achieved this milestone during the 1983 World Cup. Facing Zimbabwe in the 20th match of the tournament, India's batting lineup crumbled. The top five batters, including Sunil Gavaskar and Kris Srikkanth, scored in single digits. Kapil Dev walked in at number six and played a sensational innings, smashing 175 runs with 16 fours and 6 sixes. His innings helped India post 266 runs and secured a 31-run victory.

Fastest Test century by an Indian batter

Kapil Dev holds the record for the fastest Test century by an Indian, a feat he achieved in Kanpur in 1986. Facing Sri Lanka, he reached the milestone in just 74 balls. Kapil's explosive innings of 163 runs included 19 fours and a six. This performance remains his highest score in Test cricket. The match ended in a draw, but Kapil's blistering knock is remembered as a testament to his aggressive batting style. He shares the record for the fastest Test ton with Mohammad Azharuddin, achieving it in 74 balls.

Best bowling figures as a captain in Test cricket 

In 1983, Kapil Dev showcased his brilliance with the ball, claiming 9/83 against the formidable West Indies in Ahmedabad. This remains the best bowling figures in an innings by a captain in Test cricket. Despite his heroic effort, India lost the match by 138 runs. Kapil's spell was a masterclass in line and length, dismissing the mighty West Indies for 201 in their second innings. His near-perfect bowling performance remains a standout moment in cricket history, even though victory eluded India that day.

Youngest captain to win the World Cup 

Kapil Dev's leadership skills came to the fore during the 1983 Cricket World Cup. At just 24 years and 170 days, he led India to a historic win against the West Indies in the final, making him the youngest captain to lift the trophy. Kapil's all-around contributions were pivotal throughout the tournament, with his innings of 175 against Zimbabwe standing out.

Youngest to reach 100, 200, and 300 Test wickets 

Kapil Dev's prowess as a bowler is reflected in his record as the youngest to reach 100, 200, and 300 Test wickets. He achieved his 100th wicket at just 21 years and 25 days, followed by his 200th at 24 years and 68 days. By 28 years and 1 day, he had crossed the 300-wicket mark.

A unique double: 5000+ runs and 400+ wickets 

Kapil Dev remains the only cricketer in history to score over 5000 runs and take over 400 wickets in Test cricket. In 131 matches, he amassed 5248 runs, including 8 centuries and 27 half-centuries, at an average of 31.05. He took 434 wickets with the ball at an average of 29.64, including 23 five-wicket hauls.