Vinod Kambli’s cricketing tale is one of squandered promise. Hailing from Mumbai on January 18, 1972, he and Sachin Tendulkar rewrote school cricket lore with monumental partnerships. Tendulkar’s India debut arrived in 1989; Kambli’s Test entry, 33 years back on January 29, 1993, at Eden Gardens against England.
India, led by Azharuddin, bowled first post-toss win. England folded for 163. Azharuddin’s 182 lit up India’s 371. At No. 3, Kambli labored to 16. The 208-run lead forced follow-on; England made 286, India romped home by 8 wickets needing 79 (82/2). Kambli’s second dig: 18 not out.
Post-debut, fireworks: 17 Tests, 1,084 runs @54.20 (4×100, 3×50, 227 HS). Two years on, dropped. ODIs stretched further—104 games, 2,477 runs (2 tons, 14 halves), last in 2000.
Early hype crowned his technique peerless. Life off-field unraveled it—reckless living, divided focus. Health scares and fiscal distress mark recent years. In a fresh interview, Kambli commits to self-improvement, fitness, and grooming his son, embodying hope in his recovery journey.