Kapil Dev Biography, Age, Height, Net Worth, Bat, Record & Jersey Number

Kapil Dev is not just a name but an iconic chapter in the history of Indian cricket. Known as the man who changed the face of Indian cricket, Kapil Dev brought India its first-ever World Cup trophy in 1983 and gave countless memories to cricket lovers across the globe. With his raw talent, unmatched dedication, and fearless captaincy, he turned the tide of Indian cricket forever.

Early Life and Background

Full Name: Kapil Dev Ramlal Nikhanj
Born: 6 January 1959
Birthplace: Chandigarh, Punjab (now Haryana), India
Father: Ram Lal Nikhanj (a timber merchant)
Mother: Rajkumari Nikhanj
Siblings: Two brothers and four sisters

Kapil Dev was born into a middle-class Punjabi family. His father migrated from Pakistan during the partition, and Kapil spent his childhood in Chandigarh. He studied at DAV School in Chandigarh and began showing promise as a cricketer from a young age.

Kapil Dev Age and Physical Stats

• Age (in 2025): 66 years

• Height: 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm)

• Weight: Approx. 80 kg

• Eye Color: Dark Brown

• Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Kapil Dev’s Family and Personal Life

• Wife: Romi Bhatia (married in 1980)

• Daughter: Amiya Dev (born in 1996), worked as assistant director in the film "83"

Kapil met his wife Romi through a mutual friend, and their friendship turned into a lifelong bond. The couple has one daughter and no sons.

Cricket Career Journey

Kapil Dev made his debut for India in 1978 against Pakistan. Despite a modest start, his potential was evident. His explosive batting and lethal outswingers earned him a place as a fast-bowling all-rounder, a rare asset for India at that time.

Major Career Milestones:

• Test Debut: 16 October 1978 vs Pakistan

• ODI Debut: 1 October 1978 vs Pakistan

• Retired: 1994

• Captaincy: Led India to win the 1983 World Cup

1983 World Cup Glory:

Under Kapil’s captaincy, India defied all odds and lifted the 1983 Prudential Cup. His unbeaten 175 against Zimbabwe remains one of the greatest World Cup innings of all time.

Career Stats:

• Tests: 131 matches, 5248 runs, 434 wickets

• ODIs: 225 matches, 3783 runs, 253 wickets

Kapil Dev Records

• First player in history to take 400 wickets and score 5000 runs in Tests

• Held the record for most Test wickets (434) until overtaken by Courtney Walsh

• Scored the 2nd fastest Test fifty by an Indian (off 30 balls)

• Never run-out in 131 Tests

• 175 vs Zimbabwe* in 1983 WC was highest ODI score by an Indian at the time

Kapil Dev Bat and Equipment

Kapil used the Slazenger WG shoulder-less bat during his iconic 175* against Zimbabwe. While many mistook it for a mongoose bat, it was actually a specially designed Slazenger bat.

Net Worth and Lifestyle

• Net Worth (2025): $30 Million (approx. ₹252 Crores INR)

• Income Sources: Cricket coaching, commentary, business ventures, endorsements

Kapil is involved in various businesses, including a chain of health clubs and a hotel. He also appears in brand endorsements and cricket commentary panels.

Jersey Number

Kapil played in an era where jersey numbers weren’t assigned. Thus, he didn’t have a fixed jersey number like modern-day cricketers.

Achievements and Awards

• Arjuna Award (1979-80)

• Padma Shri (1982)

• Padma Bhushan (1991)

• Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1983)

• ICC Cricket Hall of Fame (2010)

• Wisden Indian Cricketer of the Century (2002)

Post-Retirement Life

After retiring, Kapil coached the Indian cricket team in the late 1990s. He later became Chairman of the National Cricket Academy and remains active in golf tournaments, media, and business ventures.

Fun Facts about Kapil Dev

• Nickname: Haryana Hurricane

• Favourite Cricketers: Don Bradman, Ian Botham

• Hobbies: Golf, table tennis, squash, watching movies

• Food Habit: Non-vegetarian

• Smoking/Drinking: Non-smoker, occasional drinker

Conclusion

Kapil Dev is a true cricketing legend whose contribution to Indian cricket is immeasurable. From a humble beginning in Chandigarh to lifting the World Cup and becoming one of the finest all-rounders in cricket history, his journey is an inspiration for generations. His legacy continues to influence Indian cricket and will forever be remembered in the annals of sports history.