Vinod Kambli discharged from hospital, urges all to stay away from alcohol

Former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli was discharged from Mumbai’s Akruti Hospital on Wednesday. The 52-year-old’s health had deteriorated earlier in December after which he was admitted on December 21.

Kambli was initially admitted for medical attention for a urinary infection and muscle cramps, but conditions later escalated, revealing clots in his brain. His stay at the Akruti Hospital in Thane’s Kalher area was attended by. Dr. Shailesh Thakur, the hospital’s director and a devoted fan of Kambli played a significant role in his recovery, personally ensuring his safe return home.

"He's fine now. I'm dropping him back home. Addressing a press conference before he left the hospital, Kambli said, "This doctor (Thakur) made me fit and I had stated that I would come back only when I am fit. I will show people in Shivaji Park that I Vinod Kambli will not leave cricket. These guys (at the hospital) gave me good cricket practice. I ‘hit’ only fours and sixes!" He also wished everyone a Happy New Year and appealed to fans to stay away from alcohol. "Enjoy the new year. Don’t drink alcohol. Enjoy life," Thakur told TOI.

The scene outside the hospital was heartwarming as Kambli wore India’s new ODI jersey and was greeted by fans and hospital staff. Holding a cricket bat, he played a few shots, entertaining his supporters. Recently in a video, Kambli was seen dancing to a popular tune with hospital staff. 

The left-handed batter represented India in 121 international games from 1991 to 2000. Kambli scored 1084 runs in just 17 Tests at an average of 54.20. He also smashed four Test centuries, including double tons against England and Zimbabwe in 1993. The southpaw made 2477 runs in 104 ODIs at an average of 32.59, with two centuries and 14 fifties.