Kapil Dev is a name synonymous with cricket in India and a beacon of inspiration for many fans worldwide. Recognized as one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history, he not only led the Indian cricket team to its maiden World Cup victory in 1983 but also transformed the face of cricket in India. As we gear up to celebrate Kapil Dev’s 66th birthday on January 6, 2024, it’s a perfect moment to revisit an intriguing incident that showcases the magnitude of his stature in cricket, especially during a time when even the great Sunil Gavaskar faced fan backlash over his decisions involving Kapil.
The Incident: Gavaskar Drops Kapil Dev from the Team
The year was 1984 when India hosted England for a five-match Test series. Led by Sunil Gavaskar, India enjoyed a promising start, winning the first Test at Wankhede Stadium by eight wickets. However, a turn of events followed as England countered by defeating India by eight wickets in the second Test held in Delhi. Gavaskar attributed this loss to Kapil Dev’s reckless batting approach, deciding to drop him from the subsequent Test match scheduled in Kolkata.
Fan Fury Erupts Over Kapil’s Exclusion
The decision to drop Kapil was unprecedented, as it marked the first time in his career that he missed a Test after playing 66 consecutive matches since his debut in 1978. Gavaskar opted to give a debut to the 23-year-old Mohammad Azharuddin in Kapil’s place, a choice that resulted in retaliation from the audience at Eden Gardens. Fans expressed their outrage, chanting slogans that made it clear: “No Kapil, No Test!” and “We want Kapil; go home, Gavaskar!” This incident highlighted the immense respect and admiration that Kapil commanded among the cricket-loving populace.
#DoYouKnow: Kapil Dev was dropped for playing a reckless shot in Delhi. That was the only time he missed a test in his entire career.
Kapil Dev had played 66 straight Test matches, then dropped (v England, Kolkata in 1984), and then again played another 65 consecutive Tests.
pic.twitter.com/3xKsyCJ3gj— Cricketopia (@CricketopiaCom) December 6, 2018
The Match Without Kapil Dev
The Kolkata Test between India and England concluded without a definitive result, remaining a drawn match. However, the situation changed drastically when Kapil was reinstated for the next Test. From that point on, Kapil never faced exclusion from the team again, demonstrating his resilience and skill, as he continued to remarkably play another 65 consecutive Tests.
Gavaskar’s Vow After the Incident
This incident left a lasting impact on Gavaskar, who promised never to play again at the Eden Gardens if the crowd behavior continued to be hostile. Accusations of politicizing Kapil Dev’s inclusion also swirled around Gavaskar, leading to his decision to withdraw from playing there in the future.
Kapil Dev’s Esteemed Test Career
Kapil Dev’s illustrious Test career spanned 16 years, during which he played a total of 131 Test matches. He bowled an impressive 4623 overs, taking 434 wickets – a significant achievement considering that the combined tally of all other Indian bowlers at the time was just 422 wickets. His exceptional all-rounder skills not only made him a cricketing icon but also laid the foundation for future generations of Indian cricketers.