Mohammed Shami enter, Rasikh Salam out for RCB in IPL 2026

Mohammed Shami: The Indian Premier League (IPL) has specific trading windows (pre-auction, post-auction, and pre-tournament) where teams can exchange players. The first phase for IPL 2026 opened after the 2025 season ended (June 10, 2025) and closes seven days before the 2026 auction. Mohammed Shami enter, Rasikh Salam out for RCB in IPL 2026.

An IPL 2026 trade involving Rasikh Salam and Mohammed Shami is definitely a possibility, particularly if RCB is keen on securing an experienced Indian pacer and SRH is looking to invest in youth and potentially free up some funds due to Shami’s high price tag and recent fitness concerns. The ultimate decision would depend on detailed negotiations between the franchises and the consent of both players.

Crucially, any trade requires the consent of the player involved. Trades can be all-cash deals where one team pays for a player, or a player-for-player swap, which is what’s being discussed here. If there’s a difference in player salaries, the team acquiring the higher-priced player usually pays the difference.

Teams must adhere to salary cap limits and squad composition rules (minimum/maximum players, overseas quota). Mohammed Shami is a highly experienced and world-class fast bowler, particularly in Test and ODI cricket, and has had excellent IPL seasons. He brings genuine pace, swing, and wicket-taking ability, especially in the powerplay and death overs.

RCB has historically struggled with a consistent and impactful Indian pace attack, and Shami would immediately address that. Shami’s experience could be invaluable in mentoring younger Indian pacers in the RCB squad.

A significant factor to consider for Shami is his recent history of injuries. He missed India’s tour of England in 2025 due to fitness concerns and has been sidelined since IPL 2025. RCB would need to carefully assess his current fitness and long-term availability.

Mohammed Shami’s IPL Stats (as of July 2025, according to recent reports):

Matches: 120

Wickets: 133

Average: 28.19

Economy Rate: 8.63

Best Bowling: 4/11

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to acquire Rasikh Salam:

Youth and Potential: Rasikh Salam is a young, right-arm medium-fast bowler from Jammu & Kashmir. He has been part of multiple IPL franchises (MI, KKR, DC, RCB) and has shown glimpses of talent. He would represent a long-term investment for SRH.

Right-Arm Option: SRH always looks for strong Indian pace options, and a young right-arm pacer could complement their existing bowling attack. SRH has a history of developing young Indian talent, and they might see potential in Salam to become a consistent performer.

Salam would likely come at a lower price point than Shami, freeing up salary cap space for other strategic acquisitions for SRH.

Rasikh Salam’s IPL Stats (as of July 2025):

Matches: 13

Wickets: 10

Average: 40.90

Economy Rate: 10.62

Best Bowling: 3/34

Shami is a proven front-line pace bowler, while Salam is still developing. The trade would depend on the strategic needs of both teams. RCB needs immediate impact, while SRH might be looking to build for the future or acquire a promising backup.

Shami was bought by SRH for Rs 10 crore in IPL 2025. If RCB acquires him, they would take on his existing contract and salary. Salam’s current salary with RCB would be a factor. Both teams would evaluate how these players fit into their overall squad balance, considering other retentions and potential auction targets.

Also Read: RCB Trade for IPL 2026: Venkatesh Iyer enter, Liam Livingstone out