Former cricketer Vinod Kambli hospitalized in Thane after health scare
Xtra Time Web Desk: Former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli was admitted to Akriti Hospital, a private facility in Thane, Maharashtra, on Saturday, December 21, after his health condition worsened. While his condition was reported as stable by Monday, Kambli remains in critical care under close observation.
The 1996 World Cup squad member has been grappling with health complications and financial difficulties for over a decade. Recently, Kambli appeared visibly frail at a memorial event for his childhood coach, Ramakant Achrekar. The event turned emotional as he reunited with his childhood friend and former teammate, Sachin Tendulkar. Despite the struggles, Kambli has remained a beloved figure in Indian cricket circles.
In a candid interview earlier this year, Kambli disclosed enduring two heart attacks in 2013 and battling a severe urinary infection. He also opened up about receiving financial assistance from Tendulkar, dispelling misconceptions about their bond.
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"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," Kambli shared on The Vickey Lalwani Show.
"There was a time I felt Sachin didn’t help me, but I was frustrated. The truth is, he has done everything for me. Our childhood bond has always been strong," he added.
Expressing gratitude to his family, Kambli said, "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. I’m ready to go to rehab. I want to get better for my family."
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Cricket fraternity extends support
Several former cricketers have pledged their assistance to Kambli, including legends Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev.
Gavaskar revealed that the 1983 World Cup-winning team had discussed Kambli’s situation and expressed their collective willingness to help.
"The 1983 team is very conscious of the younger players. For me, they are like grandsons; some are like sons. We are all very concerned, particularly when fortunes desert them. We want to take care of Vinod Kambli and help him get back on his feet," Gavaskar said.
Kapil Dev echoed Gavaskar’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in Kambli’s recovery.
"We are all here to support him. But more than us supporting him, he must support himself. We can’t help him if he doesn’t want to help himself," Kapil remarked.
Vinod Kambli, who played 17 Tests and 104 ODIs for India between 1991 and 2000, remains an enduring part of Indian cricket’s legacy. As the cricketing fraternity rallies around him, hopes are high that Kambli will overcome his struggles and find a path to recovery.
