Sunil Gavaskar has once again shown that his contributions to Indian cricket go far beyond the boundary ropes. Through his initiative, The Champs Foundation, the former India captain has stepped in to offer lifelong financial assistance to his old teammate and fellow Mumbai cricketer Vinod Kambli, who has been battling serious health issues.
According to The Times of India, the foundation will provide Kambli with ₹30,000 per month for life, along with an additional ₹30,000 annually to cover medical expenses. The gesture came after Gavaskar met Kambli during the 50th anniversary celebrations of Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium in January 2025.
Kambli, despite his fragile health, made an appearance at the event, where Gavaskar had a brief but heartfelt conversation with him. The very next day, Gavaskar reportedly met with Kambli’s doctors to understand his condition and swiftly instructed The Champs Foundation to initiate support from April 1 onwards.
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Kambli’s health scare began in December 2024 when he was admitted to a private hospital in Thane with cramps and a urinary infection. What initially seemed like a routine ailment soon turned serious after doctors discovered blood clots in his brain. He spent 10 days in treatment before being discharged on New Year’s Day. A video of him from his hospital bed, appearing weak yet spirited, stirred concern among fans and former cricketers alike.
🚨 A GREAT GESTURE BY SUNIL GAVASKAR 🚨
Sunil Gavaskar foundation will provide 30,000 rs monthly for Vinod Kambli for rest of his life starting from April 1st and additional 30,000 rs annually for medical expenses. [Gaurav Gupta from TOI] pic.twitter.com/bLplVtymoH
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) April 15, 2025
While commentating during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy earlier this year, Gavaskar revealed that the 1983 World Cup-winning squad, of which he was a part, wanted to “take care” of Kambli. “We don’t want to use the word ‘help’,” he said. “We want to see him stand on his feet again. These boys are like sons or grandsons to us.”
Kambli, who made his international debut in 1991, was known for his explosive left-handed batting and flamboyant stroke play. He played 17 Tests and 104 ODIs for India, amassing over 3,500 international runs. Despite his talent, his career was cut short due to injuries, poor form, and off-field issues. Post-retirement, he dabbled in coaching, reality TV, and politics, but could never find stable footing.
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Still, Kambli’s love for the game hasn’t faded. Even during his recent health battle, he remained optimistic. In an emotional message, he thanked well-wishers and said he wasn’t ready to give up on cricket. He also shared that his son was keen on taking up the sport and that he hoped to guide him in pursuing the dream he once lived.
