Meet man who played with Tendulkar, represented India in World Cup, quit cricket to become actor, made debut with Sanjay Dutt

This former team India player’s career was cut short. After retiring from cricket due to injury, he ventured into Bollywood, but one misstep destroyed his career.

Many cricketers who represented Team India faced challenges that cut their careers short, and former cricketer Salil Ankola is among them. After hanging up his cricketing boots, he ventured into Bollywood and found success in the film industry. However, his struggle with alcohol addiction ultimately led to significant challenges in his personal life.

After cricket, this player entered into politics, he is now…

Salil Ankola began his cricketing journey playing domestically for Maharashtra and made his Test debut against Pakistan on November 15, 1989, a historic match that also marked Sachin Tendulkar’s first appearance. In that game, Salil took a wicket in both innings, showcasing his talent on the international stage.

Later that same year, he transitioned to One Day Internationals, even representing India in the 1996 World Cup. Unfortunately, a tumor in his left calf forced him to retire from cricket at the young age of 29 in 1997, cutting short a promising career.

Salil Ankola has always harbored a passion for acting, and after retiring from cricket, he made a bold leap into the world of Bollywood. He made his film debut in 2000 alongside Sanjay Dutt in Kurukshetra, where he played the role of Sub Inspector Avinash. Following this, he landed several roles in movies such as Chura Liya Hai Tumne, Riwayat, Ekta, and The Power.

This one mistake ruined his career…

However, his struggle with alcohol addiction took a toll on his personal life, leading to financial troubles and ultimately resulting in his divorce from his first wife, Parineeta Ankola.

Salil later remarried Riya Banerjee, but his challenges continued. Eventually, he transitioned to television, appearing in popular serials like CID and Vikraal Aur Gabraal, showcasing his versatility as an actor.