While Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli are three cricketers with several laurels to their name, for Gavaskar, it’s Kapil Dev – India’s first World Cup-winning captain in 1983, who is on top of the list.
“Top of everything would be Kapil Dev, he would be No.1. For me, he is the best. All-time No.1 will always be Kapil Dev,” Gavaskar told India Today.
“He could win the match with the bat and with the ball. He would take the wickets and win the match for you. He would score a scorching hundred or quickfire 80-90 and turn the game around. He made an impact with the bat. He made an impact with the ball. Don’t forget all those catches that he took. So he was a complete cricketer,” Gavaskar said.
Gavaskar recalled how Kapil got India out of dire situations with the bat and the ball and also was one of the best fielders in the Indian team. During his time as captain of the Indian team, Dhoni was lauded for his ability to remain calm under pressure. Gavaskar highlighted how the trait was similar between both Dhoni and Kapil.
Fondly known as the Haryana Hurricane, Kapil became a huge inspiration for several aspiring Indian cricketers as India stunned two-time World Champion West Indies to clinch its maiden title in 1983. Kapil played a key role in the showpiece event while leading the team, both with bat and ball.
