Former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli has been admitted to a private hospital in Thane, Maharashtra, after his health condition worsened.
Doctors treating the 52-year-old revealed on Monday, December 23, that medical examinations have detected clots in his brain.
Kambli, a prominent figure in Indian cricket during the 1990s, was admitted to Akriti Hospital in the Kalher area of Bhiwandi on December 21.
Dr Vivek Trivedi, who is leading his treatment, shared that the former cricketer initially complained of a urinary infection and muscle cramps. However, further tests uncovered the presence of brain clots.
“Kambli’s health is under constant monitoring, and additional medical examinations will be conducted on Tuesday,” Dr Trivedi said. In a gesture of solidarity, hospital in-charge S. Singh announced that Kambli would receive free lifelong medical care at the facility.
Struggle with health and finances
Kambli, a member of India’s 1996 World Cup squad, has faced significant health and financial challenges since his retirement from professional cricket. The Mumbai-born batter has previously suffered two heart attacks in 2013 and has been battling various ailments, including a severe urinary infection.
Earlier this year, Kambli disclosed his struggles with addiction to alcohol and financial instability. He expressed gratitude for financial support from his childhood friend and former teammate, Sachin Tendulkar, clearing misconceptions about their relationship.
Kambli was last seen at a memorial event for his coach, Ramakant Achrekar, where he appeared visibly frail and emotional upon reuniting with Tendulkar.
Kambli’s plight has drawn support from the Indian cricketing community, with several former players, including Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, offering assistance. The fraternity has rallied around the cricketer, acknowledging his contribution to Indian cricket during its formative years of global prominence.