Young cricketer found dead at Nagpur residence

A 17-year-old aspiring woman cricketer allegedly died by suicide in Nagpur after reportedly being left heartbroken over not getting selected for a higher-level team. The incident came to light on Thursday morning in the Laxmi Nagar locality, which falls under the Bajaj Nagar police station area.

The deceased, identified as Aditi Chaukhande, was originally from Akola and lived in Nagpur with her mother and elder brother. Her father works as a civil contractor in Akola. Aditi had recently passed her Class 12 examinations and was chasing her dream of making a mark in cricket.

According to police, Aditi was training as a cricketer along with her elder brother Prabal, who is also an upcoming player. On Wednesday night, after having dinner with her mother, she went to her room, where she allegedly took the drastic step. Her brother was out of town at the time of the incident.

'I am sad I couldn't be selected': Suicide note recovered

Police recovered a suicide note from the room in which Aditi reportedly spoke about her disappointment over not being selected, while also expressing her wish that her parents would be made proud through her brother's cricketing journey.

"Dada, you play so well. You will become very big. Make our parents proud. I am sad I couldn't be selected," the note read, according to police.

Police register accidental death case

Senior Inspector Chetan Chauhan said the initial investigation suggests the teenager was upset over not being picked for a higher-level cricket team.

"The victim seems to have taken the drastic step due to disappointment over not getting selected in a big team," senior inspector Chetan Chauhan said.

Police have registered an accidental death case and are investigating the matter further.

Tragedy puts mental health of young athletes in spotlight

The heartbreaking incident has once again raised urgent questions about the emotional and psychological pressures faced by young athletes, particularly around selections, trials and the fear of failure that can accompany sporting ambition at a tender age. Experts have long stressed the need for structured mental health support within academies, schools and sports associations so that aspiring players are better equipped to cope with setbacks.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in distress, help is available. You can reach out to the AASRA helpline (+91-9820466726), the Vandrevala Foundation (1860-2662-345) or iCall (9152987821) for free, confidential support.