The Indian Premier League (IPL) has emerged as a premier stage for budding cricketers to display their skills and earn lucrative deals. Among the promising talents from Jammu and Kashmir, Rasikh Salam, Umran Malik, and Abdul Samad have each established a distinct identity in the league. However, their IPL contracts highlight varying degrees of experience, achievements, and promise. Here’s an analysis of their respective deals.
Rasikh Salam
Rasikh Salam, a promising fast bowler from Jammu and Kashmir, made his IPL debut in 2019 with the Mumbai Indians (MI). His first contract, valued at INR 20 lakh, was indicative of his raw talent but limited experience at the professional level. Salam’s inclusion in MI’s squad was largely seen as an opportunity to groom a young pace prospect, given MI’s strong emphasis on nurturing fast bowlers.
However, Salam has not been a regular in the playing XI, with his opportunities being relatively few in the tournament’s early seasons. His IPL contract serves as a reminder of how teams identify and invest in potential, with the hope of future returns. However, the Kulgam-born pacer secured his place in the RCB squad for a whopping INR 6 crore, he is expected to shine in the RCB jersey alongside left-arm pacer Yash Dayal.
Umran Malik
Umran Malik, the fiery pacer from Jammu and Kashmir also known as Jammu Express, burst onto the scene during IPL 2021, impressing with his raw pace and consistent wicket-taking ability. Known for consistently clocking speeds above 150 km/h, Malik quickly became one of the most electrifying young fast bowlers in the IPL, he delivered the third fastest bowl in the IPL history (157kmph). His contract not only underscores his current impact but also reflects SRH’s confidence in his potential as a cornerstone of their future campaigns.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) acquired the pacer for INR 75 lakhs for the IPL 2025.
Abdul Samad
Abdul Samad, a dynamic middle-order batsman and an integral part of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), has been associated with the franchise since 2020. His initial contract, valued at INR 20 lakh—similar to Rasikh Salam’s—reflected his potential but limited exposure at the time. Over the seasons, Samad’s dependable performances in the middle order and his ability to clear the ropes under pressure secured him a significant retention deal worth INR 4 crore for the 2022 IPL season.
The young talented all-rounder performed well in crucial moments for SRH. However, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) secured this star at INR 4.2 crore for the upcoming edition of the IPL.
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Jasir Basharat is a cricket enthusiast capturing the heart of the game through insightful analysis and storytelling sharing his passion for the sport through engaging narratives. He is a business graduate from University of Kashmir.
