Rasikh Salam Joins Royal Challengers Bangalore for ₹6 Crore in IPL 2025 Auction
Kulgam-born pacer Rasikh Salam has been bought by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for a whopping ₹6 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction. This marks a major step in Salam’s career, as he continues his journey after overcoming several challenges in his cricketing path.
Rasikh, who has represented Jammu and Kashmir in domestic cricket, registered for the IPL 2025 auction with a base price of ₹30 lakh. The 21-year-old right-arm fast bowler first gained attention when he was signed by Mumbai Indians at the age of 17, becoming only the third cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to make it to the IPL. However, his journey took a setback in 2019 when he was banned for two years by the BCCI for age-related discrepancies.
After serving his ban, Salam made his IPL comeback in 2022 with Kolkata Knight Riders, but struggled to make an impact, playing only two matches and going wicketless. In 2024, he found his rhythm with Delhi Capitals, picking up 9 wickets in 8 matches, showcasing his growing potential as a key pace bowler.
The IPL 2025 auction saw intense bidding for Salam, with Sunrisers Hyderabad initially entering the race before RCB raised the stakes to ₹2 crore. Delhi Capitals exercised their Right to Match (RTM) option but decided not to match RCB’s final bid of ₹6 crore, securing the pacer for the Bengaluru franchise.
With his dynamic pace and the experience of bouncing back after setbacks, Rasikh Salam’s addition to RCB’s bowling attack is expected to add a potent edge to their fast-bowling arsenal in the upcoming IPL season.
