Sachin-Vinod Kambli Friendship: Vinod Kambli Breaks Silence

Cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Vinod Kambli have been childhood friends, rising to prominence through Mumbai school cricket. Their record-breaking 664-run partnership for Shardashram Vidya Mandir against St. Xavier's in the Harris Shield Trophy on February 24, 1988, earned them national recognition and paved their way into the Indian cricket team at a young age.

However, recent speculations suggested that their friendship has weakened over the years. Addressing these rumors, Vinod Kambli finally opened up about his relationship with Tendulkar, revealing mixed emotions.

“There was a time (in 2009) when I felt Sachin didn’t help me, and I was very disappointed,” Kambli admitted. But he acknowledged Tendulkar's support during difficult times. “Sachin helped me when I needed it the most. He covered the expenses for my two surgeries in 2013. Our childhood friendship came through,” he shared on The Vicky Lalwani Show.

Kambli also credited Tendulkar for shaping his cricketing career. “Sachin taught me how to play cricket. He supported me every time I made a comeback. I re-entered the Indian team nine times. As cricketers, we feel low when we’re injured or dropped,” Kambli said.

Sachin Tendulkar debuted for India in November 1989 against Pakistan, while Kambli had to wait until January 1993, making his Test debut against England at Eden Gardens. Despite his promising start, Kambli played only 17 Tests and 104 ODIs. His last Test was against New Zealand in Cuttack in November 1995, while his final ODI appearance was against Sri Lanka in Sharjah in October 2000. In contrast, Tendulkar reached unparalleled heights in international cricket.