Cricketing legend and former India captain Kapil Dev has urged young cricketers to prioritise representing the country over franchise success, saying the ultimate goal of any player should be to play for India.
“The aim for young players should be to play for the country, not IPL,” Kapil said, underlining his belief that national duty must remain the highest aspiration in Indian cricket. "Parents these days say: Mere bete ko IPL khila do. The goal should instead be: Mere bete ko India khila do", the cricketing legend asserted during an interaction with reporters and audience at the ICC Centenary Celebrations in Kolkata on Thursday.
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Adaptability wins the game, not preference
Speaking on the evolving nature of the game, Kapil said he has no preferences when it comes to cricket’s shorter formats and believes adaptability defines great players. “I love everything in cricket, T20, T10,” he said, adding that format length has never been a concern for him. “Mere liye T20 ho ya T10, mujhe koi problem nahi hai,” Kapil remarked.
Kapil also dismissed comparisons between eras, stressing that players from the past would have thrived in today’s game. “I also stress on the fact that Sunil Gavaskar would have excelled had the T20 format existed today,” he said.
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On the technical side of batting, the former all-rounder highlighted the value of strong fundamentals even in aggressive formats. “Defense is difficult, it gives better room to attack,” Kapil said, reinforcing the importance of solid technique.
Praising India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, Kapil said commitment in the field often sets great players apart. “Ravindra Jadeja enjoys fielding the most, which I used to do too,” he said, pointing to the growing role of athletic fielding in modern cricket.
Kapil also touched upon expectations and comparisons in the public discourse, cautioning against forcing players into predefined moulds. “Don’t expect everyone to play like you, and stand up for the team,” he said, calling for unity and support around the national side.
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Kapil Dev’s remarks reflect a blend of old-school values and modern acceptance, stressing that while formats may change, the core principles of discipline, technique and pride in playing for the country must remain intact.
