On this day in 1994, the Ahmedabad Motera Stadium brimmed with excitement as India faced Sri Lanka in a Test cricket match. The anticipation was palpable, especially as Indian cricket icon Kapil Dev stood poised to make history. With 431 Test wickets to his name, Kapil needed just one more to surpass Richard Hadlee’s record.
The tension peaked as Sri Lanka chose to bat after winning the toss. In the eighth over, Kapil’s relentless bowling found success when Tillakaratne Dilshan edged a delivery to Sanjay Manjrekar, marking Kapil’s 432nd Test wicket and a new record. To celebrate this momentous achievement, 432 balloons ascended into the sky, honouring Kapil’s remarkable journey.
Despite the milestone, Kapil remained humble, acknowledging the crowd with a smile. India continued to dominate the match, with strong performances from players like Mohammad Azharuddin, whose acrobatic catches electrified the atmosphere. Ultimately, India secured a decisive victory, sealing a series whitewash.
Beyond the thrill of victory, February 8, 1994, etched itself in cricketing lore as Kapil Dev’s day of glory. His record-breaking feat showcased not only his skill but also his enduring spirit, inspiring cricketers worldwide. Kapil retired as the leading Test wicket-taker with 434 scalps, leaving a lasting legacy in the cricketing world.
Editor's Pick
Top Stories
