Kapil Dev urges Vinod Kambli to seek rehabilitation

India great and 1983 World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev has made a heartfelt appeal to former cricketer Vinod Kambli, urging him to take the first step toward rehabilitation. The once-flamboyant Mumbai batter, who represented India in 17 Tests and 104 ODIs from 1991 to 2000, has been grappling with health and personal struggles in recent years.

Kapil Dev emphasised the importance of self-help as the cornerstone of any successful recovery. Speaking at the launch of the Vishwa Samudra Open, Kapil, who also serves as the president of the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), said, "We are all (there) to support him. Sunil Gavaskar has already told me on behalf of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, and I extend my help on my behalf, but more than me trying to support him, he should support himself. We can't look after him if he does not want to look after himself.

This appeal comes as concerns grow over Kambli's deteriorating physical and emotional well-being. Once celebrated for his swashbuckling batting style in the 1990s, Kambli now cuts a frail figure, a stark contrast to his prime.

Vinod Kambli's struggles have been compounded by a history of legal troubles and



erratic behavior. Over the years, he has faced allegations of drunk driving, ramming into his housing society's gate, and even assaulting a maid. In 2022, he was arrested for alleged drunk driving after crashing his car into a building gate in Mumbai. The incident not only highlighted concerns about his personal conduct but also pointed to a troubling pattern that has overshadowed his later years.

One of the most recent and alarming incidents involves a viral video showing Kambli struggling to walk steadily and maintaining his balance. The video, which has sparked widespread concern among fans and well-wishers, depicts Kambli in a disoriented state, requiring assistance from others to navigate safely.

Sunil Gavaskar, another legend of Indian cricket, echoed Kapil's sentiments, stating, "The 1983 team wants to take care of him. We want to help Vinod Kambli get back on his feet."

Kambli and Tendulkar's camaraderie dates back to their school days at Shardashram Vidyamandir in Mumbai, under the mentorship of Achrekar. Together, the duo etched their names into cricketing folklore with a world-record unbeaten partnership of 664 runs in a Harris Shield semifinal match in 1988.