Cricket in India has seen many legends, but few have had the impact that Kapil Dev did. Known as the “Haryana Hurricane,” Kapil Dev was not just a cricketer—he was a revolution. From leading India to its first-ever World Cup victory in 1983 to becoming one of the greatest all-rounders in history, Kapil Dev’s journey is nothing short of inspirational.
In this detailed biography, we explore Kapil Dev’s age, height, net worth, cricket records, jersey number, personal life, and much more.
Kapil Dev Biography: Early Life & Background
Birth & Family
- Full Name: Kapil Dev Ramlal Nikhanj
- Born: 6th January 1959 (Age in 2025: 66 years)
- Birthplace: Chandigarh, India
- Father: Ram Lal Nikhanj (Teak Merchant)
- Mother: Rajkumari
- Siblings: 2 brothers (Ramesh Dev & Bhushan Dev) & 4 sisters
Education
Kapil Dev studied at D.A.V. School, Chandigarh, but his passion for cricket took over early in his life.
Kapil Dev’s Physical Stats
Kapil Dev was a tall, athletic fast bowler with a strong build, which helped him bowl with pace and bat with power.
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm) |
| Weight | 80 kg (during playing days) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Kapil Dev’s Net Worth (2025)
Kapil Dev’s contributions to cricket and his ventures post-retirement have made him one of the richest cricketers in India.
- Estimated Net Worth (2025): $30 Million (₹250 Crore INR)
- Income Sources: Cricket career, endorsements, coaching, commentary, and business ventures.
Kapil Dev’s Personal Life
Wife & Marriage
- Wife: Romi Bhatia (Businesswoman)
- Marriage Year: 1980
- How They Met: Through a common friend, Sunil Bhatia, at a party in Mumbai.
Children
- Daughter: Amiya Dev (Born: 16th January 1996)
- Worked as an assistant director for the movie ’83’ (based on the 1983 World Cup win).
- Son: Kapil Dev does not have a son.
Kapil Dev’s Cricket Career: The Rise of a Legend
Debut & Early Career
- Test Debut: 1978 vs Pakistan (Quetta)
- ODI Debut: 1978 vs Pakistan (Lahore)
- First Test Century: 126 vs West Indies (1979, Delhi)
Kapil Dev quickly became India’s premier fast bowler and a hard-hitting batsman.
1983 World Cup: The Turning Point
Kapil Dev captained India in the 1983 World Cup, where the team was considered an underdog.
Key Contributions:
- *175* vs Zimbabwe* (One of the greatest ODI innings ever)
- 12 Wickets & 303 Runs in the tournament
- Led India to victory in the final vs West Indies
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This win changed Indian cricket forever, inspiring a generation of players.
Kapil Dev’s Bat & Equipment
- Bat Used: Slazenger WG (Shoulder-less Bat)
- Often mistaken for a mongoose bat, but it was a customized Slazenger.
- Bowling Style: Right-arm fast-medium (known for his outswingers & yorkers)
Kapil Dev’s Records & Achievements
Kapil Dev was a record-breaking all-rounder. Here are some of his unbreakable records:
Batting Records
✅ Fastest Test 50 by an Indian (30 balls) (vs Pakistan, 1982)
✅ 175* vs Zimbabwe (Highest ODI score at the time)
✅ 5,000+ Test runs & 400+ wickets (Only player to achieve this at retirement)
Bowling Records
🏆 434 Test Wickets (Was the highest wicket-taker before being surpassed by Anil Kumble)
🏆 First Indian to take 400 Test wickets
🏆 23 Five-wicket hauls in Tests
Unbreakable Feats
🔥 Never got run out in 131 Test matches
🔥 Captained India to its first World Cup win
🔥 Only player with 5,000+ runs & 400+ wickets in Tests
Kapil Dev’s Jersey Number
Unlike modern cricketers, Kapil Dev played in an era without fixed jersey numbers. However, he is often associated with No. 11 in nostalgic references.
Also Read :- MS Dhoni Net Worth 2025
Kapil Dev’s Awards & Honors
Kapil Dev’s contributions earned him numerous accolades:
🏅 Arjuna Award (1979-80)
🏅 Padma Shri (1982)
🏅 Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1983)
🏅 Padma Bhushan (1991)
🏅 ICC Hall of Fame (2010)
Kapil Dev’s Life After Retirement
After retiring in 1994, Kapil Dev remained involved in cricket and other ventures:
✔ Coach of the Indian Team (1999-2000)
✔ Commentator & Analyst
✔ Golf Enthusiast (Plays in celebrity tournaments)
✔ Business Ventures (Restaurants, sports academies)
Fun Facts About Kapil Dev
🔹 Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
🔹 Favorite Shots: Hook & Drive
🔹 Hobbies: Golf, Table Tennis, Watching Movies
🔹 Favorite Cricketers: Don Bradman & Ian Botham
🔹 Food Habits: Non-vegetarian
🔹 Drinking/Smoking: Drinks occasionally, does not smoke
Conclusion: Why Kapil Dev is a True Legend
Kapil Dev wasn’t just a cricketer—he was a game-changer. His 1983 World Cup win put India on the global cricket map, and his all-round brilliance set benchmarks that are still revered today.
From a young boy in Chandigarh to the captain who made history, Kapil Dev’s journey is a masterclass in passion, leadership, and excellence.