Former Indian cricketer Salil Ankola TOI learned that the former fast bowler is currently undergoing treatment for severe depression at a rehabilitation and mental health care center near Pune. While the news has sparked concern in the cricket fraternity, many young fans may not be fully aware of the journey of the former fast bowler, who once shared one of the most famous debut matches in the history of Indian cricket.Ankula made his international cricket debut for India in the same Test in Karachi in 1989 that introduced two future legends of world cricket. Sachin Tendulkar And Waqar Younis. In the leadership of which a powerful Pakistani side is facing. Wasim AkramThe tall Mumbai fast bowler took two wickets in his only Test for India.
Before gaining national selection, Ankula burst onto the domestic scene with a sensational debut season for Bombay in 1988-89. He announced himself with a hat-trick and a valuable innings of 43 runs against Gujarat before picking up a six-wicket haul against Baroda. His performances quickly catapulted him into the Indian team.Although his international career did not last long, Ankola still represented India in 20 ODIs and remained a respected performer in domestic cricket. In 54 first-class matches, he took 181 wickets, including 6 for 47. He later worked with legendary fast bowling coach Frank Tyson to redesign his action and shorten his run-up in an effort to improve control and reduce physical stress.Ankula returned to India’s ODI set-up in the mid-1990s and was also part of the 1996 World Cup squad before eventually losing his place again. His cricket career ended early at the age of just 28 when a tumor in his chin forced his retirement.After cricket, Ankula successfully ventured into the entertainment industry. He appeared in several television serials and films, including the popular horror show “Sshh… Koi Hai” and worked with such personalities. Sanjay DuttRenuka Shahane, Sunny Leone, Adnan Sami and Asha Bhosle in various projects.Despite his foray into acting and production, Ankula remained deeply involved with cricket. He later returned to the game in managerial roles, serving as Mumbai’s chief selector from 2021 to 2023 before becoming the national selector in January 2023. He remained in the role until August 2024.According to his family, Ankula has been struggling emotionally since his mother’s death in October 2024. His wife Riya Ankula told TOI that he chose to seek treatment after finding it difficult to cope with the loss and seeing a decline in both his mental and physical health.
