Kapil Dev to get his battle readiness checked

Former Indian cricket captain Kapil Dev, who was inducted into the Territorial Army five months ago, will undergo a three-day battle efficiency test in New Delhi beginning on Friday.

"The orientation or familiarisation of Kapil Dev will begin on Friday. The battle efficiency test as it is being called will also include firing practice," an army official told IANS.

Kapil Dev, who scripted history by leading the Indian team to victory in the 1983 World Cup, was commissioned into the 150 TA (Infantry) battalion of the Punjab Regiment.

The 50-year-old legendary cricketer is now an honorary Lieutenant Colonel. He received his badges of rank from the Indian Army chief on Sep 24, 2008.

Having inspired thousands of youth in the country to pick up a bat and ball, Kapil Dev now hopes to inspire them to don the Olive Green to protect the nation.

The Territorial Army is a part-time citizen's force which functions as a "vital adjunct" to the regular army.