Bengaluru, Dec 29 (UNI) Former captain India captain Kapil Dev on Sunday spoke about today’s generation of cricketers, acknowledging their exceptional talent while emphasising that they often believe they “know everything.”
Speaking at the launch of Stumped, a tribute to Syed Kirmani’s monumental contributions to Indian cricket, Kapil stressed the importance of experience, something that his generation of players gained over years on the field.
“Today’s cricketers are fantastic. They’ve done wonderfully well, but they think they know everything,” Kapil remarked. “Yes, they are far better than we were, no doubt, but the one thing we have over them is the experience we’ve gained. That’s something they still need to learn.”
Kapil urged young cricketers to seek wisdom from the veterans of the game, such as Kirmani, Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, and others who not only excelled in their careers but also accumulated invaluable knowledge that can help guide the next generation.
“The best bowlers and batsmen will come, but they don’t have the experience we’ve had,” he said. “That’s why we always said that youngsters should learn from the greats like Kiri, Rahul, Anil, Laxman, Prasanna, Venkat, and so many others sitting here today. That’s what we did.”
Further stressing the point, Kapil shared a moment with another cricketing legend, Sunil Gavaskar, who once insisted that he remove a sweater he was wearing, saying, “Remove that. When you play for India, you can wear this.” This moment, Kapil explained, was a lesson in humility and the importance of earning one’s place at the highest level.
Kapil fondly recalled his first interactions with Kirmani, recalling the time when he attended an under-19 camp and got his first autograph from the legendary wicketkeeper and the great Gundappa Vishwanath. “Kiri wished me tons of runs and tons of wickets, and that moment has stayed with me forever,” he said emotionally.
Kapil also reflected on his own humble beginnings, coming from a farming background, and how he was initially out of his element when interacting with the more cultured cricketers around him. Despite his discomfort, he praised Kirmani’s calm, composed nature, which helped him feel at ease.
“He was one of the finest cricketers I ever played with. He never raised his voice but remained composed, and that’s something we all admired,” Kapil said.
In conclusion, Kapil expressed his admiration for Kirmani and extended his best wishes for his future. “Kiri, your second innings will bring you even more strength, happiness, and love. You’ve done wonderfully well, for yourself, your family, and for cricket.”
The event, celebrating Kirmani’s lasting legacy, highlighted the enduring influence of cricket legends who continue to shape the game’s future.
