Srinagar, June 9: J&K’s rookie cricketer, Rasikh Salam, is Indian limited-overs vice-captain, Rohit Sharma’s most favourite young bowler said Irfan Pathan.
Rasikh, a young pacer, made an amazing entry to big stage, straightaway featuring for J&K senior team before playing Indian Premier League (IPL) for Mumbai Indians. However, he was later banned for two years after found guilty of age-fudging.
Talking about the youngster, Irfan Pathan, the mentor of J&K senior team, said he was elated to see his rise.
“Rasikh Salam, a teacher’s son, who came from a small village, became part of mainstream cricket. He’d never been able to play junior cricket before that. I got to know that he was always a part of 30 and never really played in the eleven. I thought he was very talented; I even forwarded his videos to my fellow players.” Pathan told The Kashmir Monitor in an interview.
The former Indian all-rounder also revealed that he introduced him to Mumbai Indians franchise, who later bought him in the IPL auctions.
“I remember meeting Rahul Sanghvi at the airport, he saw Rasikh’s videos and said he’ll definitely call him when Mumbai Indians hold their trials for IPL. I even told Shikhar Dhawan about him.” He said.
Irfan went on to say Rasikh is the most favorite youg bowler of Mumbai Indians skipper, Rohit Sharma.
“I wanted the whole world to see him. Today he happens to be Rohit Sharma’s most favourite young bowler.” Pathan added.
Rasikh will be eligible to play competitive cricket next season onwards.