kapil dev https://www.cricketwinner.com kapil dev Mon, 31 Mar 2025 00:45:55 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html https://github.com/jpmonette/feed en Copyright © 2024 Cricket Winner. All Rights Reserved. <![CDATA[Kapil Dev Thanks Adani Group for Supporting Invitational Golf Tournament]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/kapil-dev-thanks-adani-group-for-supporting-invitational-golf-tournament/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/kapil-dev-thanks-adani-group-for-supporting-invitational-golf-tournament/ Sat, 29 Mar 2025 12:30:21 GMT

As part of the event, five top PGTI golfers will hold a special golf clinic for 50 children from the Adani International School. This initiative is part of Adani’s efforts to support young talent and promote golf at the grassroots level. It is also for India’s future bid for the 2036 Olympics, Adani showing to make the sport more accessible to future generations.

ALSO READ: IPL 2025: RR vs. CSK- A head-to-head breakdown 

The Adani Invitational Golf Championship 2025 is not just about competition; it’s about growing the game in India.
The tournament has professional golfers a this game is to show their skills and also inspire young players too. By making golf a more interesting game and creating world-class opportunities for the Golf Players, Adani hopes to produce India’s future golf champions.



This game gives young and aspiring golfers a chance to meet and learn from experienced professionals, helping youngsters to understand the game better and learn it for the future . From these efforts, the Adani Group is working to build a strong sports event in India, encouraging more young players to play a golf and aim for success on the global stage.

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<![CDATA[Watch:SRMB TMT's New Advertisement Campaign Featuring Cricket Legends]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/srmb-tmt-s-new-advertisement-campaign-featuring-cricket-legends/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/srmb-tmt-s-new-advertisement-campaign-featuring-cricket-legends/ Thu, 20 Mar 2025 10:09:39 GMT

SRMB TMT's New Advertisement Campaign Featuring Cricket Legends

SRMB TMT, a renowned steel manufacturing firm, has introduced an all-new ad campaign with the cricket legends Kapil Dev, MS Dhoni, and Rohit Sharma. The campaign underscores the company's focus on strength, durability, and trust, which are traits also associated with these cricket greats.

About the Advertisement
The advertisement tracks the journey of such cricketers and equates their achievements to SRMB TMT's sturdy and strong steel products. The campaign's catchphrase, "Champions Ki Pasand," asserts that just as one needs strong steel to construct buildings, in cricket one needs strong leadership and resolve.

In a dramatic twist of events, the ad includes a flashback when Kapil Dev gets nostalgic about India's iconic 1983 World Cup win, while Dhoni and Rohit sit up and listen intently, adding humor and warmth to the scene. The segment has touched fans at an emotional level, and the ad is now not about steel but about friendship born out of cricketing lore.

ALSO READ:Zaheer Khan on MS Dhoni's Fan Following: "Yellow Will Dominate Every Stadium"

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<![CDATA[India’s Top Run-Getters in Every ICC Trophy Winning Campaign]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/india-s-top-run-getters-in-every-icc-trophy-winning-campaign/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/india-s-top-run-getters-in-every-icc-trophy-winning-campaign/ Mon, 10 Mar 2025 10:08:58 GMT

India’s Top Run-Scorers in ICC Trophy Wins

India has won many ICC tournaments, and in every victory, some players have played amazing innings. From great players to fearless batters, Let’s look at the top Indian run-getters in each ICC trophy-winning tournament.

1983 World Cup – Kapil Dev (303 runs)

India’s first-ever World Cup win in 1983. Kapil Dev’s fearless approach inspired the team, and his unforgettable 175 against Zimbabwe remains one of the greatest knocks in cricket history of all time. He ended the tournament as India’s top run-scorer with 303 runs in eight matches.

2007 T20 World Cup – Gautam Gambhir (227 runs)

The first-ever T20 World Cup was in 2007. Gautam Gambhir scored Crucial 227 runs in six matches. His match-winning 75 in the final against Pakistan was the best of the tournament.

2011 World Cup – Sachin Tendulkar (482 runs)

Sachin Tendulkar, playing in his last World Cup, led the way with 482 runs in nine matches. His two centuries and consistent performances helped India bring the trophy home after 28 years. Winning the World Cup at home in 2011 was the best moment for every Indian player.

ALSO READ: PM Modi Applauds Team India’s Victory

2013 Champions Trophy – Shikhar Dhawan (363 runs)

India was unbeaten in the 2013 Champions Trophy, thanks to Shikhar Dhawan’s incredible form in the 2013 Champions Trophy. He smashed 363 runs in just five matches at an average of 90.75. His attacking style and two centuries made him the standout performer in that tournament.

2024 T20 World Cup – Rohit Sharma (482 runs)

Rohit Sharma once again proved why he’s one of the best in ODI format. In the 2024 T20 World Cup, he led from the front, scoring 482 runs in eight matches with a strike rate of 156.70. His three fifties, including a brilliant 115, helped India lift the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 trophy.

2025 Champions Trophy – Shreyas Iyer (243 runs)

India won in ICC trophy in 2025, and Shreyas Iyer played a key role in winning the Trophy. He scored 243 runs in five matches at an average of 48.60. His calm and composed batting when need runs were needed, along with crucial knocks in pressure games helped India's dominance in the ICC Champions Trophy and to lift the Trophy.

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<![CDATA[Yograj Singh Took a Pistol to Confront Kapil Dev After Being Dropped from the Team]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/yograj-singh-took-a-pistol-to-confront-kapil-dev-after-being-dropped-from-the-team/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/yograj-singh-took-a-pistol-to-confront-kapil-dev-after-being-dropped-from-the-team/ Sun, 12 Jan 2025 17:33:13 GMT

Yograj Singh, the former Indian cricketer and father of Yuvraj Singh, has always been known for his boldness and outspoken nature. In a recent interview on the YouTube channel Unfiltered with Samdish, Yograj made shocking revelations about his cricket career, including his troubled relationships with Kapil Dev and Bishan Singh Bedi.

Yograj claimed that Kapil Dev, during his captaincy of India, North Zone, and Haryana, played a significant role in ending his cricketing career. He shared how Kapil dropped him from the Indian team and the North Zone squad without any reason, which marked the end of his international cricket journey. Yograj’s career consisted of only one Test match and six ODIs. The disappointment led him to step away from the sport entirely.

Read Also: Captain Rohit Sharma Travels to Pakistan?

In the interview, Yograj shares a shocking incident from that time. He revealed how his anger over being dropped drove him to confront Kapil Dev with a pistol in hand. Yograj said:


"When Kapil Dev became captain of India, North Zone, and Haryana, he dropped me without reason. My wife urged me to question him, but I told her I would teach him a lesson. I took my pistol and went to his house. Kapil came out with his mother, and I told him, ‘Because of you, I have lost a friend. You will pay for what you’ve done. I want to put a bullet through your head, but I won’t because of your pious mother standing here.’"

Yograj blamed his wife for influencing his actions during that time, saying women could disrupt a man’s life if given power. He remarked:

"Wife will destroy your house if you give her power. Sorry to say, Indira Gandhi ran this country and destroyed it. Give them respect and love, but never give them power."

He also blamed Bishan Singh Bedi for the politics he faced in his career, stating in an interview.

'I never forgave Bishan Singh Bedi. The man died on his bed.'

In the interview, Yograj Singh revealed that after India’s 2011 World Cup victory, he proudly sent newspaper clippings to Kapil Dev, saying Yuvraj performed better than him. Kapil responded with an emotional message, expressing a wish to be brothers in the next life and asking for an apology. However, Yograj admitted he still felt a sense of hurt and vengeance.

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<![CDATA[Jasprit Bumrah breaks Kapil Dev's 32-year-old Test record]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/jasprit-bumrah-breaks-kapil-dev-s-32-year-old-test-record/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/jasprit-bumrah-breaks-kapil-dev-s-32-year-old-test-record/ Wed, 18 Dec 2024 03:58:14 GMT

Indian star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah set a new Test record in Indian cricket with the ball, which broke the legendary pacer Kapil Dev’s 32-year-old record. 

After India were bowled out for 260 runs in reply to Australia’s first innings total of 445 runs in the Brisbane Test, Australia had a horrible start in their second innings, as they lost four wickets for only 28 runs in the first ten overs. 

Jasprit Bumrah took the first two wickets of Australia's second innings

While Jasprit Bumrah took the first two wickets by dismissing Usman Khawaja (8) and Marnus Labuschagne (1), Akash Deep was really impressive by picking up the other two wickets in his first two overs. Akash dismissed Nathan McSweeney (4) and Mitchell Marsh (2).

Talking about Bumrah, he bowled Khawaja and completed his 51st Test wicket in Australia. Later, Labuschagne’s caught-behind dismissal recorded his 52nd Test wicket in Australia.

See Also: Fans slam Indian team management after Ravindra Jadeja's heroic batting performance

Bumrah surpassed Kapil Dev-Ishant Sharma's joint record

Legendary cricketer Kapil Dev was the first Indian to record 50 Test wickets in an overseas country. In 1992, he completed 50 Test wickets in Australia and ended his career with 51 Test wickets in Australia. 

Ishant Sharma was the other Indian bowler to take 50+ Test wickets in a foreign country. Till 2021, the tall right-arm pacer picked up 51 Test wickets in England.

With his 52 Test wickets in Australia, Bumrah set a new record for most wickets by an Indian bowler in an overseas country. Later, Bumrah took the wicket of the Aussie captain Pat Cummins (22) to take his tally in Australia to 53 Test wickets. Australia ultimately declared their innings at 89/7 as the hosts set a 275-run target for the visitors in the fourth innings.  

With his 9/94 in the Brisbane Test, Bumrah recorded the second-best Test match bowling figures by an Indian pacer in Australia. He also holds this record with 9/86 during the 2018 Melbourne Test. 

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<![CDATA[Top 5 Indian Bowling Spells from the BGT played in Australia]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/top-5-indian-bowling-spells-from-the-bgt-played-in-australia/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/top-5-indian-bowling-spells-from-the-bgt-played-in-australia/ Thu, 21 Nov 2024 05:44:38 GMT

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) brings together the best players from Australia and India for a highly anticipated Test series. Several players have made their mark on the rivalry's history with match-winning performances over the years.

Regarding bowling, various notable bowlers from India and Australia have turned the contest around throughout the years in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Here's a list of the top five memorable bowling displays by the Indian roster in the down under, through the timelines of this highly acclaimed bilateral red-ball series.

Kapil Dev: 8/106 in Adelaide 1985-86

Kapil Dev's 8/106 in the 1985 Adelaide Test is still the finest Test bowling performance by an Indian bowler in Australia. Kapil bowled with remarkable control against a rigid Australian batting order, limiting them to just 381 runs in the first innings. He was known for his accurate seam movement and swing bowling, which made Australian hitters nervous.

The furious fast bowler removed practically every Australian batter and stood out for a solitary performance that placed India in a position to win the Test. Despite India taking the lead with a commanding 520/10 as a response, the match finished in a tie, with Kapil named the man of the match.

Anil Kumble: 8/141 in Sydney 2003-04

Anil Kumble was famed for his never-say-die mentality, and his 8/141 spell in Sydney in 2004 demonstrates his perseverance. Bowling on a flat Sydney field, Australia had already scored a staggering 474 in response to India's 705. Kumble's spell came on a track that gave nothing to the bowlers, but he still made an impression.

He broke vital partnerships and continued to chip away at Australia's batting order. While the game ended in a tie, Kumble's eight wickets were the most important in preventing Australia from running away with it. His performance demonstrated his ability to bear the brunt of India's bowling assault, particularly in difficult international circumstances.

Ajit Agarkar: 6/41 in Adelaide 2003-04

Ajit Agarkar recorded a career-best performance of 6 for 41 in the 2003 Adelaide Test, which proved crucial in India's memorable four-wicket victory. His wickets included Ricky Ponting, whose departure for a duck was critical in shattering the opposition's resistance.

Agarkar's famous session is sometimes overlooked by Rahul Dravid's superb 233 in the same game, but it was his bowling that secured India's rare overseas victory.

Also Read: Top 5 Indian Batting Innings from the BGT played in Australia

Mohammed Siraj: 5/73 in Brisbane 2020-21

Mohammed Siraj's 5/73 in Australia's second innings was his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket, coming in only his third outing. Siraj, despite having little experience, led an injury-depleted Indian bowling attack that lacked seasoned bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, and Ravichandran Ashwin and up to the task by bowling with control and aggressiveness.

Siraj's success came despite personal sadness, as he had lost his father during the tour but elected to remain in Australia to serve on national service. Siraj's accomplishment reflected India's perseverance and depth. Siraj's victory exemplified India's squad's tenacity and depth throughout the victorious 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy campaign. 

Jasprit Bumrah: 6/33 in Melbourne 2018-19

In 2018, Jasprit Bumrah led India to their first-ever victory in a Boxing Day Test Down Under. The right-arm seamer took 6/33 as Australia were bowled out for 151 in response to India's 443/7 declaration. This spell contained everything. There were seamed-up deliveries, bouncers, yorkers, and Shaun Marsh's famed slow yorker.

This display of "complete fast bowling" by the world-class seamer who deserved to seal the first rank of the bowlers' roster at that time. These are still the best Test figures by an Indian at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Bumrah also took three wickets in the 2nd innings, with Australia failing to chase 399.

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<![CDATA[5 Indian bowlers with most wickets against Australia in Test]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/5-indian-bowlers-with-most-wickets-against-australia-in-test/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/5-indian-bowlers-with-most-wickets-against-australia-in-test/ Thu, 21 Nov 2024 05:26:34 GMT

The rivalry between India and Australia in Test cricket is one of the most celebrated contests in the sport. With a history dating back to 1947-48, this clash has produced unforgettable matches, marked by exceptional performances from legendary players. While batsmen often take the spotlight, bowlers play an equally critical role in securing victories in the longest format of the game.

Indian bowlers, both spinners and pacers, have risen to the challenge against Australia, delivering spellbinding performances that have etched their names in cricketing history. Here’s a look at the top five Indian bowlers with the most wickets against Australia in Test cricket.

5. Kapil Dev – 79 wickets

India’s first World Cup-winning captain, Kapil Dev, was a masterful all-rounder who thrived against Australia. In 20 Tests between 1979 and 1992, Kapil claimed 79 wickets at an impressive average of 25.35. His fiery spell of 8/106 in Adelaide during the 1985-86 series remains etched in memory, as he dismantled a strong Australian batting lineup led by Allan Border.

4. Ravindra Jadeja – 89 wickets

A modern-day maestro, Ravindra Jadeja has emerged as a consistent performer against Australia. In 17 Tests, Jadeja has taken 89 wickets at an average of 18.89, showcasing his ability to excel in both Indian and Australian conditions. His 7/42 at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium in 2023 stands out as one of the most dominant spells in recent history, helping India secure a resounding victory.

3. Harbhajan Singh – 95 wickets
Harbhajan Singh’s magical spells against Australia earned him the nickname "The Turbanator." In 18 Tests, he picked 95 wickets, highlighted by his stunning performance in the 2001 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With 32 wickets in three matches, including a memorable hat-trick at Kolkata, Harbhajan proved to be Australia’s nemesis time and again. His best figures of 8/84 underline his dominance over the mighty Aussies.

2. Anil Kumble – 111 wickets

Anil Kumble, India’s highest wicket-taker in Tests, was a force to be reckoned with against Australia. Over 20 matches, he scalped 111 wickets, including 10 five-wicket hauls. Kumble’s precision and ability to exploit spin-friendly conditions made him Australia’s biggest challenge. His iconic 8/141 at the Sydney Cricket Ground during the 2003-04 tour remains one of the finest spells by an Indian bowler Down Under.

1. Ravichandran Ashwin – 114 wickets

Sitting at the top of the list is Ravichandran Ashwin, who has taken 114 wickets in 22 Tests against Australia. Known for his tactical brilliance and versatility, Ashwin’s standout performance came in Chennai in 2013, where he recorded figures of 7/103 and 5/95. With an impressive mix of spin variations, Ashwin continues to trouble Australian batters both at home and away, cementing his legacy as one of India’s finest.

India’s bowlers have played a pivotal role in scripting historic victories against Australia. From Kapil Dev’s fiery pace to Ashwin’s guileful spin, these legends have consistently delivered match-winning performances. Their ability to adapt to vastly different conditions in India and Australia has made the rivalry thrilling to watch.

See Also: The Future of KL Rahul: Opportunities and Challenges

As India and Australia continue to produce epic battles on the field, the legacy of these iconic bowlers serves as a reminder of the importance of taking 20 wickets to win a Test match. With each series, new stars emerge, but the contributions of these stalwarts will forever remain an integral part of this storied rivalry.

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<![CDATA[Top 5 Indian All-Rounders of all time that have created an impact]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/top-5-indian-allrounders-of-all-time-that-have-created-an-impact/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/top-5-indian-allrounders-of-all-time-that-have-created-an-impact/ Fri, 20 Sep 2024 19:06:10 GMT

In comparison to batters and bowlers, India has produced a relatively scarce number of quality all-rounders. Top-order batters and spin spinners have always dominated the cricketing landscape. However, the few all-rounders that have emerged are not just numbers but remarkable talents on the world stage.

These Indian all-rounders have consistently showcased their versatility with both bat and ball, winning matches single-handedly, inspiring their teammates, and setting a benchmark for aspiring young cricketers. Here's a writeup to the top 5 Indian all-rounders who have left an indelible mark on Indian cricket history.  

Kapil Dev

It's no surprise to find Kapil Dev topping the given list. Kapil Dev, an embodiment of raw spirit and grit, has the potential to be remembered as one of India's best athletes. He bowls for extraordinarily lengthy durations that modern bowlers could never imagine, and he has never missed a match due to fitness difficulties. The former captain is India's third-highest wicket-taker in Tests.

But, above all, the 1983 World Cup win was the catalyst for the halo around him. His incredible catch to eliminate Viv Richards in the World Cup final may have been the turning point in the West Indies' dominance. In 382 international cricket matches, he has scored a colossal 9031 runs and 687 wickets. 

Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin's career has been a rollercoaster, but it has significantly influenced his arsenal. He replaced Harbhajan Singh on the Indian team and shattered several test records. Ashwin, a street-smart cricketer, used several variations to confuse batters across forms.

Even though he was one of the players who lost his spot in the ODI and T20 teams owing to India's glut of spinners, no one could match his test supremacy. With cautious knocks and daring ramp shots, Ashwin is one of India's top all-rounders. He has scored 4302 runs and taken 744 wickets in his current international spell across all formats.

Ravindra Jadeja

Ravindra Jadeja completely transformed the fielding aspect of the game, including his all-round ability. Jadeja failed to gain a position on the Indian side despite playing as Virat Kohli's vice-captain in the Under-19 World Cup. Jadeja is still evolving as a limited-overs all-rounder, but his combination with Ravichandran Ashwin is lethal in Test cricket. Jadeja is now a match-winning batsman, ball player, and fielder.

India cannot omit him from any of their teams. With his recent retirement from the T20I side, his fundamental contributions in the ODI and Test formats will be crucial for the Indian team in the coming days. In his international career, he has made 6393 runs and scalped 568 matches in 279 matches.

Also Read: Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja Entertain Once More at Chepauk

Irfan Pathan

Irfan Pathan was hyped as the future Kapil Dev during his early career. A great left-arm bowling all-rounder with the ability to swing the ball both ways joined the Indian team and immediately made an impression. He became the first Indian bowler to achieve a test hat-trick in the opening three deliveries of a test match.

After demonstrating his ability to knock rapid boundaries late in the innings, he was an easy pick to play for India in the 2007 T20 World Cup, when he was named Man of the Match in the final. In his 141-match career, he scored 2821 runs and scalped 301 wickets. 

Ravi Shastri

Ravi Shastri is a complete all-rounder both on and off the pitch. In some ways, he revolutionised the game by going against the tide. While batters began scoring runs more quickly, his defensive tactics, such as his ability to play long innings and tire out the opposition and subsequent high scores against formidable opponents, greatly benefited him.

He was a right-handed batsman who bowled left-arm orthodox, an unusual breed of player. But at times, Ravi Shastri became so vicious that he blasted six sixes in one over. His excellent statistics of 3830 runs with 151 wickets in test cricket and 3108 runs with 129 wickets in one-day internationals speak for themselves. Adding cherry on the top, he is also excellent at coaching and commenting.

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<![CDATA[Watch: Kapil Dev shares touching words for ailing Anshuman Gaekwad]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/kapil-dev-shares-touching-words-for-ailing-anshuman-gaekwad/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/kapil-dev-shares-touching-words-for-ailing-anshuman-gaekwad/ Wed, 24 Jul 2024 05:12:25 GMT

As former India cricketer Anshuman Gaekwad continues his fight against cancer, Kapil Dev, the legendary 1983 World Cup-winning captain, has shared an emotional video message of support. Kapil, known for his inspirational leadership on and off the field, urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to assist Anshuman when news broke that the former cricketer and coach was struggling to arrange funds for his treatment. Responding to Kapil’s appeal, the BCCI issued an INR 1 crore fund to support Anshuman in his time of need.

Kapil Dev’s call for support

In his video message, Kapil Dev passionately expressed his solidarity with Anshuman Gaekwad, urging him to remain strong and continue his fight against cancer. Kapil, who has long been an advocate for supporting fellow cricketers, emphasized the importance of coming together as a community during challenging times. His call to action resonated with the cricketing world and prompted swift assistance from the BCCI, highlighting the profound impact of Kapil’s words.

“Hi Anshu, I know you are going through a rough time, but it doesn’t matter, we have all gone through rough times in life. I remember all the good days. The first time? When I played under you, you were my captain. And I remember when I was captain you got two hundred runs in Jalandhar against Pakistan, so good memories. Difficult times come and go, but I know that you are a fighter. Come on, cheer up and try to live a life, whatever God has given you and I wish you get better and better and be happy,” Kapil Dev said in a video.

A touching message of encouragement

Beyond his appeal for financial support, Kapil Dev took the time to reminisce about the memorable moments he shared with Anshuman on the cricket field. In his heartfelt message, Kapil reminded Anshuman of their camaraderie and the joyous times they experienced together. While acknowledging the inevitability of life’s end, Kapil encouraged Anshuman to keep fighting, reassuring him that the entire cricketing fraternity stands behind him.

“We all have to go one day, but the best part about human beings is fighting it out the way you fight it out on the cricket field. Whatever is going to happen, will happen. I hope we meet soon. We will all celebrate together. We had a good time. You just look after yourself. It doesn’t matter whatever happened, it happened for good, and I think you are a wonderful person. We had great stories to talk about. We have a lot to talk about, but firstly you need to get well soon. We will have coffee together and if nothing, then we can have a little drink together as well. Look after yourself. Love you from the entire cricket community. We all feel proud of you to remember that. Don’t let us down? Look after yourself? Love you Anshu. Take care,” he added.

See Also: Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2024, Match 10: India beat Nepal by 82 runs and reach the semifinals – Cricket Winner

Kapil’s emotional outreach is a testament to the deep bonds formed within the cricketing community and the unwavering support extended to those facing adversity. His message serves as an inspiration for Anshuman and many others battling similar challenges, reinforcing the power of unity and encouragement in overcoming life’s obstacles.

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<![CDATA[Kapil Dev wishes Indian players 'All the Best' as Gautam Gambhir takes over as Head Coach]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/kapil-dev-wishes-indian-players-all-the-best-as-gautam-gambhir-takes-over-as-head-coach/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/kapil-dev-wishes-indian-players-all-the-best-as-gautam-gambhir-takes-over-as-head-coach/ Wed, 17 Jul 2024 13:07:40 GMT

The suspense is over: Gautam Gambhir will succeed Rahul Dravid as the head coach, starting with India’s limited-overs tour of Sri Lanka. Gambhir’s appointment was officially announced last Wednesday. Although he missed the Zimbabwe tour, where VVS Laxman served as acting coach, Gambhir, the former India opener, is set to take charge in 10 days, heralding a new era in Indian cricket.

It’s important to note that, unlike his predecessors Dravid and Ravi Shastri, Gambhir has no prior coaching experience. However, he served as a mentor for three seasons—two with Lucknow Super Giants and one with Kolkata Knight Riders earlier this year—with a commendable track record. LSG reached the IPL Playoffs in 2022 and 2023, and KKR won the title two months ago. While Gambhir may lack extensive coaching experience, he brings a strong pedigree believed to be the right blend of aggression and balance to elevate Indian cricket to new heights.

Gambhir’s peers have been huge positive about his new role, with many considering him the best candidate for the job. However, former India captain Kapil Dev refrained from commenting extensively on Gambhir’s appointment, simply wishing the Indian team and its players good luck for the future.

“If Gautam Gambhir is taking on the role of head coach for the Indian cricket team, I wish him and the team all the best. I hope they achieve greater success than we did in the past. My best wishes go to the Indian players,” Kapil said to PTI during the 2nd edition of the Trinity Golf Champions League in New Delhi.

Kapil Dev’s Time as India’s Coach

Kapil has significant coaching experience with the Indian team, having served as head coach from September 1999 to September 2000. Unfortunately, his tenure was challenging, marked by a tough tour of Australia where India was whitewashed in the Test series and won only one out of 14 matches in the CB tri-series. Additionally, India suffered a 0-2 defeat against South Africa at home, marking their first Test series loss at home in 12 years.

During this time, Kapil faced match-fixing allegations from his former teammate Manoj Prabhakar, which shook the nation and ultimately led to his resignation. In 2004, he made a brief return to coaching as the bowling consultant for India’s tour of Pakistan.

Gambhir’s Challenge Ahead

However, Gambhir’s appointment is anticipated to differ significantly from Kapil’s tenure. He faces the daunting task of filling big shoes left by his predecessor, Dravid, who guided India to a World Cup victory after 13 years and an ICC title after 11. With the Champions Trophy and the third World Test Championship scheduled for next year, followed by the 2026 T20 World Cup on home soil, Gambhir faces a challenging tenure ahead. This includes the upcoming five-Test series in Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year.

The Gambhir era appears to be taking shape. Reports suggest he is keen to include Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who had earlier opted out of the Sri Lanka tour, in the upcoming series. With only a few ODIs remaining before the Champions Trophy in February 2025, Gambhir aims to strengthen the team. Furthermore, there are indications that under Gambhir’s leadership, India may witness a new T20I captain, with reports suggesting Suryakumar Yadav, rather than Hardik Pandya, is poised to succeed the recently retired Rohit Sharma.

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