Former India cricketer Vinod Kambli has been hospitalized in Thane after his health worsened. Once a promising talent, Vinod Kambli has battled health and financial struggles for years, receiving support from family, friends, and former teammates like Sachin Tendulkar. He remains under close observation in critical care.
Vinod Kambli, a former Indian cricket player, has been hospitalised following a declining health during the past weekend. On Saturday, December 21, the 51-year-old—who has been struggling with several health problems for more than a decade—was admitted to Akriti Hospital in Thane, Maharashtra. As of Monday, Vinod Kambli’s condition has reportedly stabilised; he is still under strict medical surveillance in critical care nonetheless.
After his retirement, Kambli—known for his spectacular 1990s performances and his bright cricket career—has battled several health issues. According to reports, his situation has been worse recently under both financial and personal strain. Although his present hospitalization causes some questions, his family and close friends are supporting him to make sure he gets the required treatment.
A Storied Career and Ongoing Health Struggles
October 1991 brought Vinod Kambli’s first international appearance in a One-Day International against Pakistan. He gave India 104 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and 17 Test matches across his career. He also participated in 129 First-Class games, mostly for Mumbai, where his batting was well regarded. Often compared to his childhood chum Sachin Tendulkar, Kambli was once regarded as one of the best prospects in Indian cricket based on their early achievements.
But a mix of form problems and disciplinary hurdles finally caused Vinod Kambli’s career to veer off course, ending what was once a bright international cricket future early. His last foreign trip was in 2000, when he was playing against Sharjah versus Sri Lanka. Vinod Kambli’s legacy as among India’s most gifted cricketer from the 1990s is still intact despite his challenges on the pitch.
Personal Struggles and Support from Friends
Since his retirement, Vinod Kambli has faced a series of personal and health challenges, including two heart attacks. In a recent interview, he recalled the difficult times when his wife, Andrea, rushed him to Lilavati Hospital after his heart attacks, with former teammate Sachin Tendulkar stepping in to assist. Tendulkar not only helped with the medical expenses but also supported Kambli through the trying period. Kambli admitted that he once felt frustrated with his situation, even questioning the support he received from Tendulkar. However, he later acknowledged that his childhood friend had always been there for him and had done everything possible to help him.
“I had two heart attacks. My wife rushed me to Lilavati Hospital, and it was Sachin who helped me through it. He paid for my two surgeries in 2013. There was a time I felt Sachin didn’t help me, but I was frustrated. The truth is, he has done everything for me,” Kambli said in the interview. “Our childhood bond has always been strong. My wife Andrea and kids, Jesus and Johanna, have been my strongest supporters. They have stood by me and ensured I get the care I need.”
Sobriety and Rehabilitation
Kambli changed his way of life significantly recently. Six months ago, he said he stopped smoking and drinking, making these choices for the benefit of his kids. “Six months ago I had quit smoking and drinking. Made it for my children’s benefit. I left it behind now; I used to do it previously.
Kambli is open to pursuing therapy and is resolved to better his life despite his health issues.”I’m ready to go for rehab. I want to go there because I don’t fear anything. My family is with me,” he added.
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Support from the Cricket Community
Among Kambli’s former colleagues, Sunil Gavaskar and Ravindra Jadeja have also supported him. Kambli noted in his interview that Gavaskar was among the first to get in touch with him during trying circumstances. “Gavaskar was the one I first spoke with,” Kambli added. “Jadeja is a quite wonderful friend of mine. Arriving to see me, he said, “Come on, get up.” Many folks have lately contacted me. Everyone observed me.”
Kambli also thanked the body of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), pointing out he thinks the body will be helpful. Definitely, they [BCCI] will be useful. Former India bowler Abey Kuruvilla is with BCCI; he keeps in touch with both my wife and me.
