Do You Expect Him To Take 10 Wickets Every Game?”: Kapil Dev Defends Young India Star From Harsh Critics
Cricket legend Kapil Dev, never one to mince words, has once again stood up for the next generation of Indian cricketers—this time passionately defending a rising young star from mounting criticism. In a powerful statement that is now making headlines, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain asked, “Do you expect him to take 10 wickets every game?”—a rhetorical question that targeted the often unfair expectations placed on young talent.
Kapil Dev Calls Out “Unrealistic Expectations”
Kapil’s remarks came during a recent cricket talk show, where the discussion centered on the performance of young Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh, who has faced sharp criticism online following his inconsistent outings in the recent T20I and ODI matches. While some fans lauded his aggression and swing, others were quick to write him off after a couple of expensive overs.
In response to the backlash, Kapil Dev fired back:
“He’s not a machine. He’s a young boy learning his craft. You cannot expect him to take 10 wickets in every match. Even the greatest bowlers have had bad days. Let him grow!”
Veteran Perspective: Kapil Urges Patience and Perspective
The former skipper drew comparisons to his own early days in international cricket, recalling the steep learning curve and the immense pressure that comes with representing India.
“When I started out, I didn’t take five-fors in every match. The team and fans gave me time. That’s how I improved. These boys today need the same space,” Kapil added.
His comments come at a time when social media scrutiny of young cricketers is at an all-time high, with every performance being dissected in real-time, often without context.
The Young Star Under Fire: Arshdeep Singh’s Recent Form
Arshdeep Singh, 25, has been one of India’s most promising seamers in the white-ball format. Known for his death-overs accuracy and left-arm angle, Arshdeep played a crucial role in India’s T20 World Cup 2022 campaign and has been a consistent performer in the IPL.
However, a few expensive overs in the recent series against West Indies and Sri Lanka led to loud criticism, with some fans questioning his place in the squad. Many experts, though, including Irfan Pathan and Ashish Nehra, have voiced their support, emphasizing the need for a long-term vision.
Fans and Media: A Double-Edged Sword?
Kapil also indirectly criticized the role of media and social platforms in amplifying failures over achievements.
“Social media gives everyone a voice—but that doesn’t mean every opinion is right. A young bowler can’t grow if he’s constantly afraid of being trolled.”
In the age of viral clips and instant hot takes, cricketers like Arshdeep, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and even Shubman Gill have occasionally found themselves at the receiving end of backlash after a single poor outing.
Team Management Also in Support
Team India’s bowling coach, Paras Mhambrey, also echoed Kapil Dev’s sentiment, stating in a press interaction:
“We believe in Arshdeep’s abilities. Every fast bowler goes through phases. It’s our job to back him, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”
The BCCI selectors, too, have shown confidence by including Arshdeep in the squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 and T20 World Cup shortlist, signaling that one or two bad games won’t determine his future.
The Bigger Picture: Building a Bowling Legacy
Kapil Dev’s defense is about more than just one player. It reflects the need to develop a supportive environment for emerging cricketers. India’s fast-bowling revolution didn’t happen overnight. The likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar were all given time, trust, and exposure before becoming household names.
Kapil’s plea? Let the next generation breathe.
A Wake-Up Call for Fans and Media
Kapil Dev’s strong rebuttal of fan criticism is a reminder that cricket is still a game of patience, even in the era of instant gratification. While expectations from Indian cricketers will always be high, constructive criticism must replace cancel culture.
Whether it’s Arshdeep Singh or any young talent wearing the Indian jersey, what they need most isn’t criticism for every missed yorker or boundary conceded—they need faith, mentorship, and time.
As Kapil Dev rightly asked, “Do you expect him to take 10 wickets every game?”
The answer is clear. Let’s celebrate their potential, not punish their progress.
