Vinod Kambli Faces Ongoing Health Battle Amid Brain Clot Concerns, Stroke Risk Remains
Vinod Kambli Faces Ongoing Health Battle Amid Brain Clot Concerns, Stroke Risk Remains
Former India cricketer Vinod Kambli continues to navigate a fragile phase in his health, with fresh revelations highlighting a persistent brain clot that has raised concerns about a possible stroke. While there has been no significant deterioration recently, those close to him say he is far from being out of danger.
According to his close associate Marcus Couto, Kambli has been dealing with the effects of a brain clot ever since his hospitalization in Thane around a year and a half ago. The condition has notably affected his memory.
“He has had a clot in his brain since he was admitted to hospital about 18 months ago. His memory is affected—he recalls things briefly and then forgets them. This is all because of that clot. He has quit alcohol, but he occasionally smokes, which is strictly not allowed. As per doctor Aadil Chagla, smoking puts him at serious risk of a brain stroke,” Couto explained.
He also highlighted a worrying social aspect of Kambli’s struggle. “At times when he steps out, he asks people for a cigarette, and many happily offer one, thinking they’re helping a former India star. But they don’t realize how dangerous it is for him, especially for his brain.”
Despite these challenges, there have been a few encouraging developments. Kambli recently returned to the camera after a long gap, appearing in an advertisement for an ice cream brand.
“About ten days ago, he worked in an ad shoot after a very long time. It took place at Shivaji Park. The role suited him well. When we visited him recently along with his family, he seemed stable and in relatively good spirits,” Couto shared.
However, his physical condition still reflects the toll of his illness—he now relies on a walking stick. His son, Cristiano, is aspiring to follow in his footsteps as a cricketer, and efforts are already being made to support his journey with help from Jatin Paranjape, who has agreed to train him without any fees.
Concerns about Kambli’s health first intensified after a public appearance in December 2024, where he looked visibly unsteady alongside his childhood friend Sachin Tendulkar. The moment drew widespread attention and concern from the cricketing community.
Several former legends, including Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, stepped forward to offer support and explore rehabilitation options. There were even discussions about enrolling him in a structured recovery program backed by members of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning team.
Couto shed more light on these efforts and the financial assistance being arranged discreetly. “We have a group of his friends, mostly cricketers, who contribute financially without making it public. His memory hasn’t worsened in the last six months, which is a positive sign. Sometimes he remembers things clearly, but at other times it becomes difficult.”
He also explained why surgical intervention is not an option. “The clot cannot be removed now because proper precautions weren’t taken earlier. Doctors have warned that the next stage could be a brain stroke. Right now, his willpower is what’s keeping him going.”
On the rehabilitation front, there were attempts to arrange long-term care, including a detailed program at a medical facility. “A structured plan was prepared for nearly a year, but funding became an issue. There was also an offer for him to move for rehab elsewhere, but ultimately, the focus shifted to ensuring he gets the best possible medical attention if his condition worsens,” Couto added.
Once regarded as one of India’s brightest cricketing talents in the 1990s and often compared to Sachin Tendulkar, Kambli’s career saw a sharp decline despite playing 104 ODIs and 17 Tests. In recent years, his health struggles have brought him back into the spotlight for very different reasons.
