Some cricket careers face unexpected roadblocks along the way. Rasikh Salam knows this reality better than most players. The young pacer from Jammu and Kashmir showed promise early. However, controversies and setbacks tested his mental strength severely. His story teaches us about resilience and second chances.
Rasikh Salam: The Jammu Kashmir Pacer
Rasikh Salam burst onto the home scene during the 2018-19 season. He played the SMAT, VHT, and Ranji Trophy. Such early publicity helps younger cricketers develop their skills. His pace bowling grabbed the selectors’ interest.
Mumbai Indians bought him for ₹20 lakhs in 2019. He has become their youngest debutant ever at just 17 years. Only 2 other J&K cricketers had played within the IPL before him. Parvez Rasool got here first in 2011, then Manzoor Dar in 2018.
His IPL debut didn’t go as planned unfortunately. No wickets came during that brief 2019 stint. The team benched him after those disappointing performances initially.
The Ban That Changed Everything
A birth certificate issue created massive problems for Rasikh Salam. The BCCI handed him a two-year ban in 2019. That punishment stopped his cricket career completely for two years. India’s U-19 squad also dropped him because of this.
Such setbacks break many young players’ spirits permanently sometimes. However, he kept working hard during those difficult times. Domestic cricket became his focus after the ban ended. He needed to prove himself all over again clearly.
His IPL Price Journey
Kolkata Knight Riders gave him another chance in the 2022 auction. The Delhi franchise picked him up for the 2024 season later. Royal Challengers Bengaluru bid heavily for him in 2025. They paid ₹6 crore to secure his services finally.
This massive price shows faith in his potential clearly. From 20 lakhs to 6 crores represents incredible growth financially. The IPL price reflects his domestic performances post-ban period. Franchises see something special in this young pacer obviously.
His IPL Team and Future
Rasikh Salam is retained by the RCB for the 2026 season now. His new IPL team believes he’s matured after those struggles. The franchise won its first championship in 2025. They want to defend that title with fresh talent.
His IPL stats show just 3 matches played till now. He’s scored 12 runs and taken zero wickets so far. Those numbers don’t reflect his actual abilities at all. Domestic cricket tells a different story about his skills.
His IPL team finally gives him a fresh platform. Expect him to grab this opportunity desperately in 2026.
