Vinod Kambli, the former Indian cricketer, recently opened up about his enduring friendship with childhood companion Sachin Tendulkar and how the cricket legend has stood by him during challenging times. Kambli expressed heartfelt gratitude towards Tendulkar, revealing the crucial role the Master Blaster played during his health crises.
Tendulkar’s Support During Kambli’s Health Battles
Kambli shared details of two heart attacks he suffered in 2013, recounting how Tendulkar not only provided moral support but also bore the financial burden of his medical expenses. “I was driving when I suddenly collapsed. My wife rushed me to Lilavati Hospital, where I was treated for two heart attacks. Sachin paid for both my surgeries,” Kambli disclosed in an interview on Vickey Lalwani’s YouTube channel.
Highlighting their bond that dates back to their school days, Kambli added, “We’ve known each other since we were very young. Sachin has always been there for me, helping in every possible way.”
A Friendship Tested by Misunderstandings
The camaraderie between Kambli and Tendulkar began at Sharadashram Vidyamandir, where they shared a record-breaking 664-run partnership as teenagers. They went on to represent India together in the 1992 and 1996 World Cups. However, their relationship hit a rough patch in 2009 when Kambli appeared on the reality show Sach Ka Saamna. During the show, Kambli stated that Tendulkar could have helped prevent his career downfall, a remark that caused a rift between the two.
Following the comment, Kambli and Tendulkar did not speak for over three years. Tendulkar’s omission of Kambli from his emotional retirement speech and a post-retirement gathering further strained their relationship. At the time, Kambli admitted feeling hurt by what he perceived as Tendulkar “forgetting” him.
Rekindling Their Bond
Despite the fallout, the duo eventually reconciled. Kambli attributed his earlier remarks to frustration, explaining, “What I said back then was out of frustration and didn’t mean anything. We later reconnected, and our childhood bond prevailed.”
Kambli later secured a coaching role at Tendulkar’s Middlesex Global Cricket Academy, signaling a revival of their friendship. The two even began appearing together in social media posts.
Kambli’s Financial Struggles and Tendulkar’s Ongoing Support
In 2022, Kambli’s financial struggles made headlines again when he revealed his reliance on a ₹30,000 monthly BCCI pension. Amid concerns from fans, Kambli acknowledged that Tendulkar had consistently supported him during tough times.
Reflecting on their journey, Kambli emphasized the importance of their childhood friendship, stating, “Our bond has withstood ups and downs. Sachin has done so much for me, and I will always be grateful.”
Their story serves as a testament to the enduring strength of friendship, even in the face of misunderstandings and life’s challenges.
