Related Articles
Former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli’s wife, Andrea Hewitt, has opened up for the first time about her struggles in their marriage, revealing that she had filed for divorce but later withdrew it after seeing Kambli’s deteriorating condition due to alcohol addiction. The former model disclosed that Kambli underwent rehabilitation at least 14 times, yet continued to struggle with his drinking habits.
Table of content
Andrea Filed for Divorce But Chose to Stay
Andrea, who is Kambli’s second wife, fell in love with him after seeing him in a Tanishq advertisement and married him in 2006. However, after 17 years of marriage, their relationship hit rock bottom, leading Andrea to file for divorce.
In an interview with freelance journalist Suryanshi Pandey, Andrea revealed that while she had contemplated leaving Kambli, she ultimately couldn’t go through with it, fearing for his well-being.
“I once thought about it (separating). But I realized that he would be helpless if I left him. He is like a child, and that hurts me. It makes me feel worried. I would not even leave a friend, and he is obviously more than that. I remember there were moments when I would just walk away. But then I would be worried: Has he eaten or not? Is he on the bed properly? Is he okay? Then I had to check on him, and I would understand that he needed me,” she shared.
Public Appearance Amid Kambli’s Health Struggles
Andrea was recently seen assisting Kambli at the 50th-anniversary celebration of Wankhede Stadium, organized by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA). She helped him walk up to receive his award from Sunil Gavaskar, a moment that caught attention due to Kambli’s frail condition.
On January 19, 2024, Andrea and their family celebrated Kambli’s 53rd birthday at a hospital in Bhiwandi, Thane district, highlighting the continued health concerns surrounding the former cricketer.
Past Domestic Abuse Allegations Against Kambli
Despite her unwavering support, trouble surfaced in February 2023, when Andrea filed a police complaint against Kambli for domestic violence. According to reports, Kambli, in an inebriated state, had thrown the handle of a cooking pan at her, causing a head injury.
This incident further exposed the deep struggles in their marriage, yet Andrea chose to stay, prioritizing Kambli’s well-being over her personal suffering.
Son Christiano Took on Responsibility at a Young Age
The couple shares two children: son Jesus Christiano Kambli and daughter Johanna. Andrea admitted that during Kambli’s health crisis, raising their children was challenging. However, their son Christiano stepped up to support his mother emotionally.
“Most of the time, I had to explain the situation to myself. I am ‘Papa,’ and I am the ‘mom’ in the family. My son Christiano understood everything. He didn’t bother me at all. He understood all the emotions on my face,” Andrea said.
Christiano, who was just four years old when he first realized the difficulties at home, expressed how he often worried about his mother’s mental health.
“I just tried to understand the situation. I try to look after her mental health and try to cheer her up. I also take care of him (father),” he shared.
A Relationship Marked by Love, Struggles, and Sacrifice
Andrea’s decision to withdraw the divorce despite Kambli’s struggles shows her unwavering dedication to her husband, even in difficult times. While their relationship has faced several challenges, including alcohol addiction and domestic violence allegations, Andrea continues to stand by Kambli’s side, ensuring that he is not left alone in his battle.
