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Former Cricketer Salil Ankola's Mother Found Dead At Pune Home In Mysterious Circumstances

Ankola confirmed mother’s death in social media post [Source: @salilankola/instagram.com]Ankola confirmed mother’s death in social media post [Source: @salilankola/instagram.com]

In a tragic turn of events, Mala Ashok Ankola, the 77-year-old mother of former Indian cricketer Salil Ankola, was found dead at her residence on Prabhat Road today. The shocking discovery left the Ankola family and the wider community reeling with grief, while authorities are investigating the suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.

Salil Ankola's Mother Dies Under Suspicious Circumstances

Mala Ankola’s lifeless body was discovered by the housemaid, who immediately alerted both the police and Ankola’s relatives. She was found in a room that was locked from the inside, with a fatal injury to her neck, allegedly inflicted by a kitchen knife.

Initial reports suggest the injury could have been self-inflicted, but the locked door has raised questions about the exact nature of her death.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Sandeep Gill shared the police’s initial findings but emphasized caution. “We found her body in a suspicious way. We are investigating whether it is a natural death or a murder. After the post-mortem, the picture will be clearer. Till then, we can't make any assurances," he said.

Mala Ankola was immediately rushed to Poona Hospital, but she was declared dead upon arrival, leaving the family in deep shock.

Meanwhile, Salil Ankola, who is widely known for his cricketing career and later his work in television, confirmed the heartbreaking news on social media. Posting a heartfelt tribute to his mother on Instagram, he simply wrote, “Goodbye Mom,” alongside a touching image, revealing his profound loss.


As the Ankola family goes through this deeply personal tragedy, support has poured in from friends, fans, and well-wishers. Many from the cricket fraternity have expressed their condolences, rallying behind Salil in his time of sorrow.

Salil Ankola's Cricket Career

Salil Ankola, who began his cricket career with Maharashtra, made his Test debut for India in November 1989 in a memorable match that also featured Sachin Tendulkar's debut. Although his career was promising, with a key role in India's 1996 World Cup squad, it was tragically cut short by a tumour in his left calf, forcing him to retire at the age of 29.

While his cricket career may have ended prematurely, Ankola transitioned into a successful career in television and acting. Now, however, he faces the greatest challenge yet—the untimely loss of his beloved mother under mysterious circumstances.

The Investigation Continues

As the investigation into Mala Ankola’s death continues, authorities are exploring multiple possibilities, including the likelihood of suicide given the locked room and injury. However, DCP Sandeep Gill stated that the final conclusion will only be drawn after the post-mortem report is completed.