The CHAMPS Foundation established by Sunil Gavaskar has provided eternal financial support amounting to Rs 30,000 monthly for former cricketer Vinod Kambli starting from April 2025. Additionally, the foundation will fund medical care worth Rs 30,000 annually starting in the same year. Sunil Gavaskar's CHAMPS Foundation has provided vital financial assistance to Vinod Kambli through The Times of India news story because he experienced major health and monetary problems in his recent years. Kambli's renowned explosive batting capabilities have earned him sympathy from the cricketing community, after which Gavaskar's initiative demonstrates their care for one of their fellow cricketers.

The Wankhede Stadium's anniversary celebration in January 2025 created the impetus leading Gavaskar to make his decision. Kambli approached Gavaskar for respect after recovering from his health crisis therefore, the former captain took immediate action. Gavaskar fulfilled the promise from the December 2024 ceremony when he launched foundation support for Kambli following his consultation with the doctor the day after.

The cricketer Kambli struggled with multiple health complications after playing 17 Tests and 104 ODIs and having scored 1,084 and 2,477 runs, respectively, as he survived two heart surgeries in 2013 while also experiencing a hospitalization in December 2024 due to a urinary infection with brain clots. A lack of financial resources forces him to depend on a Rs 30,000 periodic payment from the BCCI since he lost his employment after COVID-19 struck.

Post-retirement, Kambli sampled coaching, reality TV, and even politics but did not find success in any of these areas. He loved the game but never found a way to get meaningful work in Indian cricket. Kambli showed remarkable determination through his hospital dance video that went viral and his energetic public appearances, which deepened fan affection.

Vinod Kambli was seen dancing in hospital; Video goes viral | #WATCH #ViralVideo #Viral #VinodKambli pic.twitter.com/0LPAw8rUVw

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) December 31, 2024

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A Legacy of Compassion

Through his CHAMPS foundation, established in 1999, Sunil Gavaskar has extended support to several former athletes, including Vinod Kambli. Kambli, who now joins the late Salim Durani and others as beneficiaries, has found some financial relief thanks to Gavaskar’s compassionate gesture. This move reflects Gavaskar’s deep personal commitment to helping his fellow cricketers, treating them like family in times of need.

The support also showcases the enduring solidarity within the cricketing fraternity, especially from legends like the 1983 World Cup squad. Their collective effort to uplift struggling players like Kambli sends a powerful message—one of hope and unity. While symbolic, such acts carry emotional weight, reminding the nation that cricketing heroes, no matter their circumstances, will always be remembered and respected in India’s cricket legacy.