'Main bhai ke area mein khelta tha': Vinod Kambli opens up on early struggles

Former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli has recently made headlines due to ongoing health issues. He was hospitalised for nearly two weeks at Akruti Hospital in Thane, where he received treatment for blood clots in his brain. The star cricketer recently recalled his early days when he use to play in 'Bhindi Bazaar,' a market associated to underworld don Dawood Ibrahim.

During an interview, he said, 'main bhai ke area mein khelta tha,' he grew up in Bhindi Bazaar, a famous area in Mumbai which is often related to gangster Dawood Ibrahim.

Vinod Kambli recently shared insights in an interview with Dainik Bhaskar, highlighting the differences between his playing style and that of Sachin Tendulkar. Kambli reminisced about hitting a six off the first ball during his Ranji Trophy debut, noting that while he was aggressive, Sachin preferred to defend on the first delivery. He stated, "Mai first ball khela aur first ball six tha, wo Sachin nahi kar sakta that. Wo defence karta tha."

Meanwhile, Kambli was spotted dancing to Shah Rukh Khan starrer Chak De India's title track while receiving treatment at a hospital in Thane, Maharashtra. His cheerful performance in the hospital room has brought joy to his fans and well-wishers.

Several former cricketers, including ex-captains Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, have extended their support to Vinod Kambli.

In an interview with India Today, Gavaskar mentioned that the 1983 World Cup-winning team is willing to assist Kambli in his recovery journey.

Kambli played 17 Test matches for India, amassing 1,084 runs at an average of 54. He also participated in 106 One Day Internationals and was part of the 1996 World Cup squad.