Former India and Mumbai pace bowler Salil Ankola is reportedly undergoing treatment for severe depression, with his family saying he has been admitted to a mental health rehabilitation facility near Pune. Ankola’s wife, Ria Ankola, revealed that the decision followed a period of distress that began after a major personal loss, and that he is now on the road to recovery.
Why Ankola sought help
Ria Ankola said her husband had been “very upset” since the death of his mother in October 2024. She added that he struggled to come to terms with the loss, and that his condition worsened in recent weeks as he began breaking down and fell ill frequently.
When Ankola noticed the change in his mental state and overall health, he chose to seek support in a peaceful environment, according to his wife. She stated that he entered the care centre near Pune a couple of weeks ago after suffering from depression.
Family’s message and recovery update
Ria said the family is relieved that Ankola opted to take a break rather than letting himself “completely break down.” She described his progress as encouraging, saying he is recovering well, working out regularly, and is expected to return to cricket in due course.
In her remarks, she also highlighted Ankola’s long-standing identity as a fighter whose connection to cricket has remained constant. Ria said both family members and friends are standing by him, and added that the wider cricket community has responded positively to his decision to pause work in order to heal.
Past rehab, cricket career and life after retirement
Ria also addressed Ankola’s earlier rehabilitation history. She said that nearly two decades ago he underwent rehab due to an alcohol addiction, but that this time the matter is depression—especially since he had quit alcohol long ago.
- Ankola is reported to be 58 years old and has been involved in commentary across domestic cricket and the IPL for the past few seasons.
- He was appointed a national selector on January 7, 2023, and served in the role until August 2024.
- He also worked as Mumbai’s chief selector from 2021 to 2023.
Playing record
Ankola’s international career included a Test appearance for India against Pakistan at Karachi in 1989. In that match, he was one of the debutants alongside Sachin Tendulkar and Waqar Younis, and he finished with two wickets.
In One-Day Internationals, he played 20 matches and took 13 wickets.
During the 1990s, Ankola was a key pace figure for Mumbai. He appeared in 54 first-class games, claiming 181 wickets, with best bowling figures of 6 for 47.
- He retired from playing at the age of 28 in 1997 due to a tumour in his chin, which ended his cricket career prematurely.
- After retirement, he moved into acting and appeared in several television serials and films.
Looking ahead
With the family indicating that Ankola is recovering well and following a structured routine, the focus now remains on his mental health treatment and a return to cricket when he is ready. The coming weeks will likely determine how quickly he can resume full activity, as support continues from within and beyond the sport.
