Kambli finally calls it quits

Nearly nine years after playing his last match for India, Vinod Kambli announced his retirement from international cricket on Sunday. Speaking at the inauguration of his multi-sport academy, Khel Bharat at Vikas College in central suburb Vikhroli, Kambli insisted he will be available for some domestic tourneys.

“I would like to thank everyone who have been involved in one way or the other in my cricketing career, especially Achrekar sir and Sachin (Tendulkar),” an emotional Kambli announced. In a boisterous ceremony, thanks to the presence of Virender Sehwag who inaugurated the academy, Kambli’s unexpected announcement took many by surprise.

Asked why he chose this occasion to call it quits, the left-hander said: “This is a new beginning for me. I have no regrets over whatever has happened. I could have played much more but unfortunately, things did not turn out that way.”

Amidst all this, Sehwag looked lost as most of the proceedings happened in Marathi. Kambli, as a humble host, played the role of translator. “I wish Vinod all the luck in his new venture. I grew up watching the likes of him in action. Unfortunately, his career was cut short. However, I am confident that this academy will produce great players,” Sehwag said.

Kambli said his academy will be free of cost and will mainly be catering to the unprivileged children.