Excelsior Sports Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Nov 25: The family of Rasikh Salam, a fast bowler from south Kashmir’s Kulgam district, is overjoyed after he was picked by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for Rs. 6 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction on Sunday.
As news of his selection reached his village, Bhan Ashmuji, a wave of celebration swept through the community. The family distributed sweets among neighbors and visitors who came to congratulate them. “I was in tears when I heard the news. It is a proud moment for us and the entire Valley. He has worked incredibly hard since childhood, and today, his efforts have paid off,” Irfan Salam Dar, Rasik’s brother, said.
Expressing gratitude, Rasikh’s family attributed his success to his unwavering dedication. “Cricket has been his passion since childhood. Sharing the bench with greats like Virat Kohli will be a tremendous opportunity for him,” they added.
Another family member emphasized the significance of nurturing local talent, saying, “We are thrilled and thank God for this blessing. My message to authorities is to conduct more talent hunt campaigns. Many talented cricketers like Rasikh can emerge from every corner of the Valley,” he said.
Rasikh Salam, an IPL player for four seasons, registered for the IPL 2025 auction with a starting price of Rs 30 lakh. He has played for the Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians. His cricket career has been filled with obstacles and turning points.
Umran, Yudhvir secure deals
JAMMU, Nov 25: Four players from Jammu and Kashmir were sold in the IPL 2025 auction held in Saudi Arabia, while 10 others went unsold. Out of 14 players from the region up for grabs, two were picked on each day of the two-day auction.
Express pacer Umran Malik, known for his 150 km/h deliveries, was bought by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at his base price of Rs 75 lakh. Meanwhile, all-rounder Yudhvir Singh, who debuted with LSG in 2023, joined RCB for Rs 35 lakh.
While 10 players, including Vivrant Sharma and Shubham Khajuria, remained unsold, the auction highlighted the rising cricketing talent from J&K, inspiring young players across the region.
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