Vinod Kambli needs two helpers to walk, viral video will take you down the memory lane

Vinod Kambli, a former Indian cricketer who once excelled on the field, is now having difficulty walking even a few steps without assistance. A recent video of Kambli's weak condition when meeting his childhood friend Sachin Tendulkar went viral on social media, underscoring the sharp contrast with his glory days.

In another recent video, Kambli was seen at an event hosted by the Mumbai Cricket Association to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Wankhede Stadium. The video shows him needing the assistance of two people as he walks to the stage to receive an MCA award. In a moving moment, Kambli bowed to former India captain Sunil Gavaskar and sought his blessings.

Despite having recently been released from the hospital following a stay in the ICU due to health difficulties, Kambli made the effort to attend the event, exhibiting his tenacity and determination. His slow, wobbly walk to the platform, combined with his plainly debilitated condition, elicited empathy from the audience. The act of touching Gavaskar's feet to express respect demonstrated Kambli's humility and reverence.

Watch:

Vinod Kambli at the felicitation ceremony of captains of Mumbai by MCA, as Wankhede celebrates 50th anniversary.

He touch the feet of Sunil Gavaskar at this occasion, Wasim Jafar and Sanjay Manjrekar welcomed him. pic.twitter.com/9zQMQTUSwD

— Mayank Prajapati (@MayankP17696295) January 14, 2025

Speaking at the event, Kambli fondly recalled his playing days at Wankhede. “I remember hitting my first double hundred here against England and going on to score many more centuries throughout my career,” he shared.

Kambli also offered advice to aspiring cricketers, saying, “If anyone dreams of playing for India like me or Sachin (Tendulkar), my advice is to keep working hard and never give up. That’s what Sachin and I did since we were kids.”

In an interview with Matrubhoomi, Kambli explained why he chose to attend the MCA function despite his frail health.

“Isn’t it the 50th anniversary of Wankhede? Isn’t this the land where I grew up playing cricket? How could I stay away when such an important event is taking place here?”

“The energy that Mumbai gives is enough to cure any illness. If you immerse yourself in the celebrations here, nothing feels like a problem,” Kambli said.

Two cricket matches were held as part of the week-long festivities, with teams representing MCA, SJAM, Consul Generals, and IAS Officers. Cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, and Dilip Vengsarkar will all appear at the celebrations. Other significant individuals, including former Indian captains Ravi Shastri and Ajinkya Rahane, current T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, and former women's team leader Diana Edulji, are likely to take part.

The primary event will recognize Mumbai's legendary cricketers from both domestic and international competitions, while also commemorating the renowned Wankhede Stadium's rich history.

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