Former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli, once known for his powerful batting, has sparked concern among fans after a recent public appearance revealed his declining health. Kambli, who now struggles to walk without support, was seen meeting his childhood friend and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar at an event in Mumbai.
VIDEO | Indian cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) met his childhood friend and former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli at the unveiling ceremony of memorial for legendary cricket coach Ramakant Achrekar in Mumbai. pic.twitter.com/uTgW0MIfax
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 3, 2024
The two cricketers reunited at the unveiling ceremony of a memorial for their coach, Ramakant Achrekar. A video of the meeting, which showed Kambli looking frail and needing assistance, quickly went viral on social media. Fans expressed worry and began praying for his recovery. Tendulkar was visibly emotional as he greeted Kambli and spoke with him briefly on stage.
Kambli’s Health Struggles
Kambli has faced health challenges for many years, including heart problems and depression. In 2012, he underwent angioplasty for blocked arteries, and in 2013, he suffered a cardiac arrest, leading to hospitalization. Despite periods of recovery, his health has remained fragile.
Sachin Tendulkar met Vinod Kambli, who asked him to sit next to him. However, Kambli didn't recognize Tendulkar. Kambli is going through serious health issues. pic.twitter.com/FhraZUNkDl
— Vipin Tiwari (@Vipintiwari952) December 3, 2024
Earlier this year, a video showing Kambli struggling to walk surfaced online, raising alarms among his supporters. At the time, Kambli assured fans that he was doing well. However, his recent appearance alongside Tendulkar has reignited concerns about his condition.
A Glance at Kambli’s Cricket Career
Kambli had a remarkable cricketing journey, representing India in 17 Test matches and scoring 1,084 runs at an impressive average of 54.20. He notched up four centuries and three half-centuries in Tests. In One-Day Internationals, he played 104 matches, amassing 2,477 runs with two centuries and 14 fifties. His highest score in ODIs was 187 runs.
18th Jan 1993, Jaipur@vinodkambli349 scored his first ODI century on his birthday as he made 100 Not Out v England. He was involved in an unbroken 164 run partnership with none other than @sachin_rt who scored 82*(81).
— Mainak Sinha🏏📽️ (@cric_archivist) August 21, 2020
Sachin's knock I had already posted, here's Kambli's ton. pic.twitter.com/ANoGht1lBu
In first-class cricket, Kambli played 129 matches, scoring a staggering 9,965 runs at an average of 59.67. His achievements include 35 centuries and 44 half-centuries, cementing his legacy as one of India’s most talented batsmen.
Fans across the country continue to hope for Kambli’s health to improve, remembering his contributions to Indian cricket and his special bond with Sachin Tendulkar.