The BCCI has announced a substantial prize of Rs 125 crore for the Indian team that recently won the T20 World Cup. However, a former Indian cricketer, who was part of the historic 1983 World Cup-winning squad, has called on the board to also recognize and reward Kapil Dev’s team, which brought immense pride and glory to the nation.

In the 1983 World Cup final, India, under Kapil Dev’s captaincy, pulled off a remarkable upset by defeating the formidable West Indies, who were the two-time defending champions, by 43 runs. India posted a total of 183 runs in their allotted 60 overs. In response, the Indian bowlers showcased exceptional skill and determination, with Madan Lal and Mohinder Amarnath taking three wickets each, successfully bowling out the powerful West Indian side for just 140 runs.

Kapil Dev And Co. To Be Provided With prize Money By BCCI?

“Rs 125 crore is huge. Happy for Team India. Well, we were not given cash rewards at that time (after 1983 World Cup victory), because board (BCCI) had said ‘we don’t have money’. Now they can give, what is stopping them? Only a few players (of that team) are getting work, rest are struggling. BCCI should look into it,” a member of the 1983 World Cup-winning Indian team told IANS on condition of anonymity.

This momentous victory not only crowned India as champions but also marked their emergence as a formidable force in international cricket. The triumph was a turning point, signaling India’s arrival on the global cricketing stage and paving the way for future successes.

The veteran player highlighted the contrast between the current Indian team, captained by Rohit Sharma, and the victorious 1983 squad. He pointed out that the 1983 champions were not given any financial rewards at the time, as the BCCI claimed they “didn’t have money.” However, he acknowledged that the board is now in a position to announce prize money, given their current financial standing.

As a reward for their remarkable achievement, the BCCI had presented each player with a modest cash prize of Rs 25,000. Upon learning about the relatively low amount given to the players, the renowned singer, the late Lata Mangeshkar, took it upon herself to honor the team’s success. She organized a musical concert in Delhi to raise funds for the World Cup-winning squad, ultimately awarding Rs 1 lakh to each player.

Also Read: Ishan Kishan Breaks His Silence On Skipping Domestic Cricket