From BCCI Ban To RCB Match-Winner In IPL 2026: Rasikh Salam’s Incredible Comeback

Rasikh Salam. [Source - AFP]

Rasikh Salam has been one of the incredible stories for RCB in IPL 2026, who has been fantastic throughout. Yet behind his rise lies a challenging chapter in his early career that briefly halted his progress.

Despite the obstacles he faced early on, Salam’s determination and skill have transformed him into a match-winner this season. His journey is a testament to resilience, proving that talent combined with perseverance can overcome setbacks. Let’s take a look at that tough chapter.

When BCCI Banned Rasikh Salam For Age Fraud

Rasikh Salam faced a major setback in 2019 when the BCCI imposed a two-year ban after discrepancies were found in his birth certificate during verification, just as he was breaking into professional cricket.

The Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler had recently been picked by Mumbai Indians in IPL 2019 and was also part of the India U19 setup, marking himself as an exciting young pace prospect emerging.

However, the suspension forced his removal from the India U19 squad that was about to tour England and halted his early momentum. With only a few domestic matches and one IPL appearance, his rapid rise was suddenly put on hold.

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How Rasikh Salam Came Back From a Two-Year BCCI Ban

Rasikh Salam had just broken into the senior Jammu and Kashmir setup when he made his IPL debut for Mumbai Indians in 2019. Soon after, his progress was halted when the BCCI imposed a two-year ban, putting his young career on hold.

During that phase, Salam feared his professional journey might not continue, but he stayed involved in the domestic circuit, training consistently. Mumbai Indians supported him throughout, helping him remain connected to cricket during the suspension.

He gradually rebuilt his career during the 2021-22 domestic season before returning to the IPL with KKR and Delhi Capitals in 2022-24. Later, RCB signed him for 6 crore INR in 2025, and he was retained for IPL 2026 as one of the integral uncapped players.

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Rasikh Salam IPL 2026: Breakout Season With RCB

Rasikh Salam’s IPL 2026 campaign with RCB has been the result of years of dedication and perseverance. Despite missing the first four matches, he quickly established himself as a reliable third pacer to Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood.

He finished the season with 19 wickets at an average of 21.31 and an economy rate of 9.45, regularly breaking partnerships and delivering key overs. His ability to perform under pressure made him a vital component of RCB’s bowling strategy throughout the tournament.

The highlight of his season came in the IPL 2026 final against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, where his 3/27 spell helped restrict the opposition. From a young player sidelined by a two-year ban to a decisive performer, Salam’s journey exemplifies resilience and redemption.

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