Vinod Kambli continues to struggle with serious health issues and his recovery is still incomplete, despite signs of physical improvement. Amidst this, Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar joined a WhatsApp group created by close friends to provide financial and emotional support.
Led by Kambli’s long-time friend Marcus Cout, the initiative brought together several former cricketers and cricket fans. Speaking about the effort to Hindustan Times, Couto shed light on both the support system and the current state of Kambli.
“I started a WhatsApp group including his friends and without taking their names, they are contributing a lot financially,” Couto told Hindustan Times.
“His memory is not good, but it hasn’t gotten worse in the last six months either. He doesn’t remember much, but when something clicks, he does it. Otherwise, it will be difficult for him,” he added.
Kambli’s condition remains delicate, with doctors warning of possible complications, although he is showing gradual improvement in mobility. Couto revealed that while the former India batsman has given up alcohol, other concerns remain.
“The doctor says the next stage will be a stroke. He has stopped drinking, but sometimes when he goes downstairs he asks passers-by to help him smoke,” Couto said.
“He asked the driver for a cigarette and they were happy to oblige, thinking they were helping ‘The Vinod Kambli’. But they don’t realize the damage they are doing. The damage now is not to his heart, liver or kidneys, it’s his brain,” he added.
Despite these challenges, there have been positive signs. Kambli can now walk more comfortably and has even resumed light professional activity, recently shooting for an advertisement.
He spends most of his time at home with his family, occasionally visiting care centers in Thane, while regular medical check-ups remain a key part of his routine.
WHAT HAPPENED TO VINOD KAMBLI
Kambli’s health problems stem from a number of complications in recent years.
A serious urinary tract infection required hospitalization last year, and doctors have since identified a blood clot in his brain that cannot be removed due to delayed treatment. This put him at risk of a potential stroke.
Although his physical condition has improved, his memory remains a concern, affecting daily routines such as medication and lifestyle.
The support from the cricket fraternity continues. Legends like Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar have also provided assistance in the past, highlighting the widespread concern for Kamblia’s welfare.
For now, our focus is on recovery and stability, with close friends and family playing a key role in helping him through this phase.
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Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
16 Apr 2026 14:52 IST
