After Vinod Kambli's heartbreaking moments with Sachin goes viral, Kapil Dev offers him another chance

Vinod Kambli’s recent appearance at a memorial event for renowned coach Ramakant Achrekar has raised concerns about the former cricketer’s declining health. Kambli, visibly frail, was seen as reluctant to let go of his childhood friend Sachin Tendulkar’s hand which has sparked worry among fans and former teammates alike. The video shared widely on social media, has only intensified fears for Kambli's well-being, especially after a previous video in August showed him struggling to walk.

Kambli’s health issues have been ongoing for some time. Marcus Couto, a former first-class umpire and someone close to Kambli, revealed that the cricketer is grappling with multiple severe health problems. Despite the previous 14 attempts at rehabilitation, including several visits to a rehab centre in Vasai, Kambli’s struggles continue. Couto, who had visited Kambli after the August video, expressed his concern over the ex-cricketer's addiction and health struggles, stating that Kambli had already undergone rehab multiple times with little success.

In an unexpected show of support, members of India's 1983 World Cup-winning team have stepped forward to offer help. Despite Kambli’s well-documented battles with alcohol addiction, which have caused strain in his relationships with many of his cricketing peers, the 1983 squad has expressed a willingness to assist him.

1983 team willing to support Kambli

In an interview with TOI, former India seamer Balwinder Singh Sandhu shared that Kapil Dev, the captain of the 1983 team, has made it clear that they are ready to financially support Kambli’s rehabilitation, but only if he takes the initial step by checking into rehab on his own. Sandhu added that the team is willing to cover the costs, regardless of how long the treatment takes. However, they have made it clear that Kambli must take the initiative in seeking treatment.

This offer of support comes after the 1983 team’s previous efforts to help former opener and coach Anshuman Gaekwad during his battle with cancer, illustrating the camaraderie that still exists among the members of India’s iconic cricket squad. Now, they are hopeful that Kambli will make the necessary commitment to his recovery and regain control of his health and life. The former cricketer’s journey back to health will depend on his willingness to seek the help he desperately needs.

Sandhu about Kambli

Sandhu reflected on past efforts, such as when Kapil Dev helped Kambli get a job as a cricket expert, only for him (Kambli) to fail to show up consistently. Other former teammates, including Nilesh Kulkarni, Abey Kuruvilla, and Paras Mhambrey, have also reportedly given up trying to help.

As someone who has known both Kambli and Sachin Tendulkar since they were 12, Sandhu expressed his deep regret at seeing a once-promising cricketer struggle this way.