Former Indian cricketing sensation Vinod Kambli is currently navigating a tough health journey. His brother, Virendra Kambli, has shared a heartfelt update: despite leaving the hospital months ago, Vinod continues to struggle with walking and speech.
Amid all this, his lifelong friend and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has stayed in touch, offering support in these difficult times—demonstrating that their bond remains as strong as ever.
The Road to Recovery: A Slow Climb Ahead
Vinod Kambli was admitted to Akruti Hospital in Thane back in December 2024 after suffering from a urinary infection and cramps. Doctors further identified blood clots in his brain, extending his hospital stay. He was discharged in early 2025 and began recovery at home in Bandra.
Now, months later, his recovery remains gradual. Virendra revealed that Vinod still faces difficulty speaking clearly and walking unaided. Despite undergoing a full-body health check—which didn’t reveal any severe issues—he continues to rely on physiotherapy and rehabilitation to regain strength.
A Brother’s Plea and Emotional Appeal
In a deeply moving plea, Virendra asked fans, well-wishers, and the cricketing community to keep Vinod in their prayers and continue offering emotional support. “He is getting stable, but his treatment is on… it will take time to recover,” said Virendra. “He is a champion—he will come back. He will start walking and running… I have faith in him.”
Sachin Tendulkar’s Heartwarming Support
Through every high and low, one constant in Vinod’s life has been Sachin Tendulkar. Their friendship began in school and was famously highlighted by their record-setting 664-run school partnership—now among cricket’s most legendary stories.
Virendra shared that Sachin has remained deeply involved, regularly calling and checking on Vinod and his family. “Their friendship is still very strong,” he said.
This support continues to shine light in dark times. Recently, during an event honoring their childhood coach Ramakant Achrekar, a frail Kambli was captured struggling to recognize Sachin. Despite that, Sachin gently held his hand, staying by his side—an act both poignant and powerful.
🏏 Vinod Kambli vs Sachin Tendulkar – Career Stats Comparison
| Format | Player | Matches | Innings | Runs | Bat Avg | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | Vinod Kambli | 17 | 21 | 1084 | 54.20 | 4 | 3 | 227 |
| Sachin Tendulkar | 200 | 329 | 15,921 | 53.78 | 51 | 68 | 248* | |
| ODIs | Vinod Kambli | 104 | 97 | 2477 | 32.59 | 2 | 14 | 106 |
| Sachin Tendulkar | 463 | 452 | 18,426 | 44.83 | 49 | 96 | 200* | |
| T20Is | Vinod Kambli | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Sachin Tendulkar | 1 | 1 | 10 | 10.00 | 0 | 0 | 10 | |
| First-Class | Vinod Kambli | 129 | 192 | 9964 | 59.67 | 35 | 40+ | 314* |
| Sachin Tendulkar | 310 | 490 | 25,396 | 57.84 | 81 | 116 | 248* |
Why This Matters So Much
- Health Struggle of a Once-Great: Vinod Kambli was one of India’s most talented batsmen in the ’90s. Today, his slow recovery brings home the vulnerability even legends face. WikipediaThe Times of India
- Friendship That Transcends Time: Tendulkar’s consistent support embodies the true spirit of camaraderie in sport and life.
- Public Concern and Compassion: Fans see their own struggles in Kambli’s. His journey has drawn widespread empathy, with heartfelt messages flooding social media.
- Hopeful Recovery: Armed with physiotherapy and rehabilitation, Vinod’s family remains optimistic. The medical charts might be stable, but the real progress lies in the small steps he’s taking.
Snapshot of Vinod Kambli’s Health Journey
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Hospitalisation | December 2024 due to urinary infection, cramps, & brain clots |
| Discharge & Rehab | Early 2025; underwent full-body checkup and physiotherapy |
| Current Condition | Still struggling to walk and speak clearly |
| Brother’s Appeal | Requested public prayers and emotional backing |
| Sachin’s Role | Regular calls, visits, lifelong support |
Concluding Thoughts
Vinod Kambli’s recovery journey reminds us how every human, no matter how great, sometimes needs support. His challenges have sparked a wave of compassion across India’s cricketing fraternity—led by none other than his childhood friend Sachin Tendulkar.
As fans, we may not heal physical wounds—but our collective prayers, wishes, and emotional support can provide immeasurable strength. Here’s to seeing Vinod take that next step forward—on his feet and speaking strong.
