Former India Cricketer Vinod Kambli Admitted In Hospital After Health Deteriorates

Former India cricketer Vinod Kambli was admitted to Thane's Akriti Hospital, a private facility, on Saturday, December 21 after the former's health condition worsened. Though the doctors stated that his condition remains stable, but will be under close observation. (More Cricket News)

Kambli, 52, has been battling health issues for more than a decade. The southpaw was part of the 1996 World Cup team as well as the 2000 Champions Trophy side that lost in the final to New Zealand.

Kambli has been troubled by health setbacks and financial struggles post-retirement.

He recently was seen in public attending a memorial event for his childhood coach Ramakanth Achrekar, where he became emotional meeting his childhood friend Sachin Tendulkar. Kambli had stated in an interview off late that he was helped by Tendulkar financially.

In that interview, he also revealed that he suffered two heart attacks in 2013, adding that the was battling a severe urinary infection. He has also struggled with alcoholism in the past.

"I had two heart attacks. My wife rushed me to Lilavati Hospital, and it was Sachin who helped me through it. He paid for my two surgeries in 2013," Kambli said during an interview on The Vickey Lalwani Show.

"There was a time I felt Sachin didn't help me, but I was frustrated. The truth is, he has done everything for me. Our childhood bond has always been strong."

"My wife Andrea and kids, Jesus and Johanna, have been my strongest supporters. They have stood by me and ensured I get the care I need," he said. "I'm ready to go to rehab. I want to get better for my family."

Former cricketers including Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar vowed to help Kambli during his difficult time.

Gavaskar, who was part of the 1983 World Cup winning team, said that the former players want to help the 52-year-old.

"The 1983 team is very conscious of the younger players. For me, they are like grandsons. If you see their age, some are like sons. We are all very concerned, particularly when fortunes desert them. I don't like the word help. What the 83 team wants to do is take care of him. We want to take care of Vinod Kambli and help him get back on his feet," Gavaskar said.