Kapil Dev Congratulates Mitchell Starc at Bangalore Blasters Launch in Bengaluru

Former India captain and 1983 World Cup winner Kapil Dev attended the launch of the Bangalore Blasters franchise in Bengaluru, where he congratulated Australian pacer Mitchell Starc for surpassing his longstanding tally of 434 Test wickets.

The Bangalore Blasters, owned by Navrathan Jewellers with Jain Sports as team partner, was unveiled ahead of the inaugural JITO Premier League scheduled to take place between August 24 and September 5 in Sri Lanka.

Speaking about Starc overtaking the Test wicket mark he held for more than three decades, Dev expressed support for the Australian bowler. He noted that milestones encourage players to work harder and stated that he hopes Starc goes on to cross 500 wickets, adding that records being broken keep former record-holders in the public memory.

During the event, Dev urged young sports enthusiasts not to let their education take a back seat. He stressed the importance of studying hard alongside pursuing athletics. He also called on the media to broaden its coverage beyond cricket and give attention to other sporting disciplines.

Reflecting on the evolution of cricket, Dev highlighted the confidence, athleticism, and attacking mindset of modern cricketers. However, he noted that contemporary top-tier Indian cricketers should make an effort to play domestic first-class competitions like the Ranji Trophy, remarking that their presence in domestic tournaments would benefit emerging players.

Dev also spoke about the enduring legacy of the 1983 World Cup victory, noting that the team regularly reunites, including a recent gathering with their families in Singapore.