In 2022, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revised its pension scheme for retired cricketers. According to the updated guidelines, players previously receiving ₹15,000 now get ₹30,000. Similarly, pensions for former Test players were raised from ₹37,500 to ₹60,000 or ₹50,000 to ₹70,000, depending on their category. Yuvraj Singh, a former Test cricketer, is eligible for ₹60,000 due to his extensive international career.
Conversely, Vinod Kambli receives ₹30,000, as he falls under the first-class cricketer category despite playing over 100 matches. His limited appearances in international Test matches—fewer than 25—restrict him from qualifying for a higher pension bracket.
A Short-Lived Test Career: The Turning Point for Kambli
Vinod Kambli’s decline in cricket began in 1994 and culminated in 1995 when his Test career abruptly ended. In his last 10 matches, Kambli failed to deliver any significant performances, with no half-centuries and three ducks to his name. This poor form led to his exclusion from the Indian Test team, paving the way for future stalwarts like Rahul Dravid to rise.
Dravid’s consistent performances sealed Kambli’s fate, ensuring he did not make a return to international cricket. As a result, Kambli’s limited Test career now directly impacts the pension he receives compared to players like Yuvraj Singh, who enjoyed prolonged international success.
Health and Financial Challenges
Kambli has recently been in the spotlight, primarily due to a viral video featuring him alongside his close friend, Sachin Tendulkar. The video, which shows Kambli in a visibly weakened state, has sparked concerns about his health.
Fans have expressed worry over his physical and emotional well-being, particularly as reports of his financial struggles also come to light. Despite once being a promising talent in Indian cricket, Kambli now faces difficulties in maintaining a stable livelihood.
The disparity in pensions highlights the long-term repercussions of his brief Test career, leaving him with fewer financial resources compared to peers like Yuvraj. Fans and fellow cricketers have rallied to offer support and wish him a speedy recovery from his current challenges.
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