Former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli’s deteriorating health came under public scrutiny following a recent event honoring legendary coach Ramakant Achrekar. Sharing the stage with Sachin Tendulkar, Pravin Amre, Balwinder Singh Sandhu, and Sanjay Bangar, Kambli appeared visibly frail. A viral video showing him leaning heavily on his childhood friend Sachin Tendulkar has sparked widespread concern.
Vinod Kambli’s battles with alcohol addiction and personal challenges have been well-documented in recent years. According to former India seamer Balwinder Singh Sandhu, members of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning team have extended a helping hand. However, their support comes with a condition: Kambli must voluntarily seek treatment at a rehabilitation center.
“Kapil (Dev) has made it clear—if he checks into rehab, we are ready to help him financially,” Sandhu told a leading publication. “We will cover the expenses, regardless of how long the treatment takes, but he needs to take the initiative himself.”
This is not the first time the 1983 heroes have rallied to assist former teammates. In the past, they provided financial support for Anshuman Gaekwad during his battle with cancer.
Despite offers of assistance, Kambli’s road to recovery has been challenging. Marcus Couto, a close associate and former first-class umpire, revealed to a news daily that Kambli has severe, multiple health issues. Couto also mentioned that Kambli has undergone rehabilitation 14 times, including three stints at a center in Vasai.
“There’s no point in him going for rehab again,” Couto stated, highlighting the complexity of Kambli’s situation.
Vinod Kambli, who debuted internationally in 1993, was once a star of Indian cricket. In 17 Test matches, he scored 1,084 runs, including two consecutive double centuries against England and Zimbabwe, and a century against Sri Lanka. In ODIs, he amassed 2,477 runs with two hundreds to his name.
Despite his promising start, Kambli’s career was overshadowed by injuries and off-field controversies, leaving fans to wonder what could have been.
