Mohali: A lifesize image of former Indian skipper Kapil Dev, whose poster went missing from the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) stadium here earlier this month leading to emotional protests from the cricketer, was restored Friday at its earlier place.

The poster was reported "missing" a few days back from the PCA stadium's pavilion building. Similar posters of other players, including Sunil Gavaskar, were, however, not removed.

"It was only due to heavy storm that Kapil Dev's original poster fell down and no politics was involved in the issue as was falsely reported by some media. We have the highest regard for Kapil as a world class player and as a humble human being," G.S. Walia, PCA treasurer, told IANS.

Interestingly, it took PCA a long time to restore the life-size poster of the cricket legend. In between, an upset Kapil sent an e-mail to PCA authorities showing concern over the safe custody of his memorabilia and gifts. He sought these items back.

"We had placed the order for the new poster with a Delhi-based company. Due to the IPL (Indian Premier League) season and manufacturer company's prior engagements, there was delay in the placement of the cut-out," said G.S. Sandhu, PCA general manager.