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From (L) Salil Ankola; Sachin and Ankola | Arranged/Archives
In November 1989, a historic Test match unfolded in Karachi as India clashed with Pakistan. That game marked the debut of two future stars: a 16-year-old batting prodigy named Sachin Tendulkar and a 21-year-old fast bowler, Salil Ankola. While Tendulkar would go on to etch his name among cricket’s all-time greats, Ankola’s career—once brimming with promise—was tragically cut short by injuries and personal turmoil.
A meteoric rise cut short
Born in Karnataka, Ankola made his first-class debut at 20, playing for Maharashtra. His six-wicket haul in that match paved his way into the national team, where he earned his Test cap against Pakistan. Though he claimed two wickets in his debut, injuries soon derailed his progress. Despite the setbacks, he fought his way into India’s ODI squad and was part of the 1996 World Cup team. However, a stress fracture limited him to just one match in the tournament.
By 1997, persistent pain led to the discovery of a bone spur, forcing him into early retirement at just 28. In his brief international career, Ankola had taken 13 wickets in 20 ODIs.
A second act in Bollywood
Unwilling to give up, Ankola turned to acting. He debuted in television serials before transitioning to films, making his big-screen appearance in Sanjay Dutt’s Kurukshetra. He went on to feature in movies like Pitaah, Chura Liyaa Hai Tumne and Silence Please… The Dressing Room. He even featured in a music album, marking his collaboration with Adnan Sami.
Yet, financial instability haunted him. Despite his relentless efforts, acting provided little respite. The strain took a toll on his mental health, leading him to alcoholism. His marriage crumbled, and in 2011, his wife, Parineeta, filed for divorce. Tragedy struck in 2013 when she was found hanging in her Pune home.
A late redemption
In 2020, Ankola made an unexpected return to cricket—this time as a selector. Appointed chief selector of the Mumbai Cricket Association, he later joined the panel tasked with picking India’s squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Ankola’s story remains one of unfulfilled potential and resilience. From the highs of an international debut alongside Tendulkar to the depths of personal despair, his journey is a stark reminder of sport’s fleeting glory and life’s unpredictable turns.
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