by Faiqa Masoodi
SRINAGAR: Kashmir cricketer Rasikh Salam Dar has become Kashmir cricket history’s only star who fetched Rs 6 crore in the IPL auctions so far. Sold to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), this marked a substantial increase from his previous auction prices, highlighting his growing reputation as a fast bowler.
In 2025 auctions, Abdul Samad, another Jammu and Kashmir cricketer was acquired by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for Rs 4.2 crore. After being retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad for three seasons, his transfer indicated his potential and value as an all-rounder.
In the same auction, Umran Malik, known for his pace, was sold at a base price of Rs ₹75 lakh but had previously garnered attention in earlier seasons.
In 2023, Yudhvir Singh was picked by RCB for Rs 35 lakh. , marking his entry into the IPL after debuting with LSG in 2023
This makes Salam a star for the cricket in Kashmir. Born on April 5, 2000, in the picturesque village of Ashmuji, nestled in the Kulgam district of South Kashmir, Salam is a name that resonates with resilience and talent in Indian cricket. At just 23 years old, Rasikh has already etched his mark as a promising fast bowler, representing Jammu and Kashmir in domestic cricket and now Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL. His journey from the serene valleys of Kashmir to the grand stage of the IPL has been as inspiring as it has been challenging.
Rasikh’s cricketing career began at an early age, with his prodigious talent evident even in the tennis-ball cricket matches he played in his village. He made his List A debut for Jammu and Kashmir in the 2018–19 Vijay Hazare Trophy on October 3, 2018, and his first-class debut in the Ranji Trophy later that year on December 30. His ability to swing the ball with control earned him a spot in the Mumbai Indians’ squad for the 2019 IPL, making him only the third cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to play in the league. At just 17 years and 353 days, Rasikh became the youngest player to debut for Mumbai Indians, showcasing his potential on the biggest stage.
However, his early career wasn’t without controversy. In June 2019, Rasikh faced a two-year ban from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) due to discrepancies in his birth certificate. Reflecting on those turbulent times, Rasikh worked on his skills and returned stronger, determined to rebuild his career. His comeback saw him being picked by the Kolkata Knight Riders for the 2022 IPL season and later by the Delhi Capitals in 2024.
This year, Rasikh’s career reached a new peak when RCB acquired him for Rs 6 crore, making him the most expensive uncapped player in the 2025 IPL auction. Despite the spotlight and hefty price tag, Rasikh remains grounded. “I’m not looking at the money or the tag of being the most expensive uncapped player. I just want to perform for my team and help RCB win matches,” he told MyKhel in a candid interview recently.
The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Injuries sidelined him during his stint with Kolkata Knight Riders, but he made a strong comeback with Delhi Capitals, impressing with his pace and composure in pressure situations. “When someone trusts you, it boosts your confidence,” he shared about his time with Delhi.
Rasikh’s domestic cricket career has also flourished. Representing Jammu and Kashmir in the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he has been a pivotal figure in the team’s resurgence. His contributions have been instrumental in their rise to second place in their Elite Group in the Ranji Trophy. “We’ve done really well over the last few years in all formats,” Rasikh noted, emphasising the team’s collective effort.
Joining RCB has fulfilled one of Rasikh’s dreams—playing alongside his idol Virat Kohli. For Rasikh, Kohli’s fitness, mindset, and leadership are attributes he deeply admires. “It’s like a dream come true to play with Virat Bhaiya. Sharing the dressing room with him will be a huge learning experience,” he said. Rasikh is eager to help RCB win their maiden IPL title and contribute to Kohli’s legacy.
Beyond cricket, Rasikh remains rooted in his origins. Despite his growing fame, he treasures the tranquil life of his hometown, cherishing time with his family, exploring the mountains, and enjoying his mother’s home-cooked meals. He takes pride in being a role model for aspiring cricketers in Jammu and Kashmir, a region brimming with talent. “The streets are full of young players. Hopefully, facilities will keep improving, and we’ll see more players from here making it big,” he said.
While Rasikh’s immediate focus is on excelling in the IPL, his ultimate goal is to represent India across all formats. “I don’t care whether the ball is red or white. The goal is to play for India, and I’ll keep working towards that,” he said passionately.
Rasikh’s journey is a testament to perseverance and belief in oneself. His advice to young cricketers reflects his own life lessons: “Tough times don’t last, but tough people do. Trust the process.” As Rasikh Salam Dar steps onto the field for RCB in IPL 2025, he carries with him not just the hopes of his team but also the dreams of countless youngsters from Kashmir.
