"I suggested Vinod Kambli to stop partying, smoking cigarettes, and going to the girls" - Former India cricketer makes stunning revelation

Former India cricketer Yograj Singh has opened up on the advice he had given to Vinod Kambli, another former Indian player. In an exclusive conversation with InsideSport, Yograj Singh recently revealed that he had suggested Kambli to stop partying and smoking, among other things.

Yograj Singh, 67, added that he had warned Kambli, but he revealed how the 53-year-old did not listen to him and is suffering today.

“I told Vinod Kambli once, ‘These parties, smoking cigarettes, going to girls – stop it; otherwise you’ll be finished, and you’ll be crying.' See what happened to him. I was talking to him personally but then he said, ‘Sir, apka time chala gaya (your time has passed).' He used to think, ‘I’m the king.’ You are not bigger than the game,” Yograj said.

Kambli has been visiting the hospital for several health issues over the last few months. He has fought urinary tract infections, brain clots, and heart-related issues. Many believe Kambli missed out on what could have been a glorious cricket career due to his off-field behavior.

---

A look at Vinod Kambli's short yet impressive career

Vinod Kambli, like Sachin Tendulkar, was among the young sensations and bright talents in Indian cricket. He had made his international debut at the age of just 19 against Pakistan in an ODI in 1991.

Kambli made his Test debut in 1993 against England. He burst onto the scene and showcased his talent right away, slamming two double-hundreds and two hundreds in his first seven Tests. However, he played his last Test in 1995. The left-hander played only 17 Tests, scoring 1084 runs at an average of 54.20, including four hundreds and three fifties, with a top-score of 227.

Kambli also played 104 ODIs for India, scoring 2477 runs at an average of 32.59, and featured in the 1996 World Cup as well. His last ODI appearance came in 2000. He announced his retirement from international cricket in 2009 and from first-class cricket in 2011.