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Vinod Kambli, once one of India’s most promising cricketers, has become the focus of concern as his health continues to decline. In a recent public appearance at a memorial unveiling ceremony for Ramakant Achrekar, Kambli’s frail condition has shocked fans and former teammates. The viral video of the event, where he clung tightly to his old friend Sachin Tendulkar for support, has painted a stark picture of his ongoing struggles.
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A Life Marked By Upheavals
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Kambli, known for his impeccable batting and legendary partnership with Tendulkar in the 1990s, has been battling multiple health issues for years. His physical decline is the result of several interconnected problems, including heart attack, depression, and a long history of alcoholism.
In 2013, Kambli suffered a heart attack. A year prior, he underwent angioplasty to address two blocked arteries. These heart-related ailments have compounded his health issues post-retirement. His frailty was evident in the recent video, where he was struggling to walk and was guided off the road for safety.
Kambli’s Struggle With Alcoholism
The former cricketer’s battle with alcoholism has been a significant contributor to his deteriorating health. Marcus Couto, a former first-class umpire and close friend, revealed that Kambli has been admitted to rehabilitation centres 14 times, including three visits to a facility in Vasai. Despite these efforts, his condition remains critical.
According to Harvard Health, symptoms of alcoholism include:
- Morning nausea or shaking
- Malnutrition and poor diet
- Abdominal pain or diarrhoea
- Flushed red colour in the face and palms
- Numbness or weakness in limbs
- Frequent injuries due to falls
These symptoms, coupled with Kambli’s visible frailty, reflect the severity of his addiction.
Depression And Its Link With Alcoholism
Kambli has spoken openly about his struggles with depression, revealing how mental health challenges have taken a toll on his personal and professional life. The connection between alcoholism and depression is well-documented. Research indicates a bidirectional relationship between Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and depressive disorders, meaning each condition can worsen the other.
Support From The Cricket Community
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The cricket fraternity has expressed deep concern and a willingness to help Kambli through these challenging times. Kapil Dev, speaking at the launch of the Vishwa Samudra Open, emphasised that while financial support for rehabilitation is available, Kambli must first commit to the recovery process himself. “We should all try to support him. But more than us, he has to support himself. We can’t look after anybody if that person can’t look after himself,” Kapil Dev stated.
Sunil Gavaskar echoed these sentiments, saying, “What the ’83 team wants to do is take care of him. We want to help Vinod Kambli get back on his feet.”
The Path Forward
Vinod Kambli’s health struggles highlight the importance of addressing mental health and addiction issues, particularly for retired athletes who often face the pressures of public life long after their careers end. His story serves as a sobering reminder of the need for comprehensive support systems that address both physical and mental well-being.
As fans and former teammates rally behind him, the hope remains that Kambli will find the strength and determination to confront his challenges and regain his health. The path to recovery is difficult, but with the support of his friends, fans, and the cricketing community, there is still a chance for him to overcome his battles and rebuild his life.
image credits: the health site, republic world, cricfit