Vinod Kambli Health Update: Former cricketer's condition critical: brain clot heightens risk of stroke
Former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli is once again in the spotlight due to serious health issues and a difficult phase in his life. Considered one of the most talented batsmen in Indian cricket during the 1990s, Kambli was once regarded as being just as gifted as his childhood friend and legendary batsman, Sachin Tendulkar. He played 17 Tests and 104 ODIs for India; however, his career gradually came to a halt as he struggled over time to maintain his form and fitness.
Kambli, 54, is now able to walk independently with the help of a support stick, but his memory remains significantly impaired. According to close friend Marcus Couto, the former batter recalls events only in fragments, though his condition has remained stable over the past six months.
According to recent reports, Kambli was admitted to Akruti Hospital in Thane in December 2024 due to a urinary tract infection and muscle spasms. Since then, his health has continued to deteriorate, and concerns regarding his condition have intensified. Citing a close friend, reports claim that he has a blood clot in his brain—which cannot be surgically removed—and this poses a persistent risk of a brain stroke.
The reports also state that Kambli's memory has been affected. Although his condition has not worsened significantly over the past few months, he frequently experiences difficulty in recalling things. According to his friend Marcus Couto, several former cricketers have collectively formed a WhatsApp group to provide financial assistance to Kambli and to help cover the costs of his medical treatment.
According to medical advice, Kambli's condition is serious, and complications—such as a brain stroke—could arise in the future. It has been reported that he has given up alcohol; however, his lifestyle and old habits have taken a severe toll on his health.
The cricketing fraternity, too, has been actively involved regarding Kambli's situation. India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain, Kapil Dev, along with other former players, had offered to assist with his rehabilitation and medical treatment. There was even a plan to provide him with long-term care at a specialized rehabilitation center, but for various reasons, that plan could not be brought to fruition.
Kambli largely remains at home, spending time with his family. While he struggles to follow television, he engages actively with his children and adheres to regular health check-ups, though lapses in medication due to memory issues persist.
There are, however, signs of progress. Kambli recently shot for a commercial in Mumbai - his first in decades - which, according to Couto, has been tailored to suit his current condition. His mobility has also improved markedly compared to six months ago, when he relied heavily on furniture for support.