Rasikh Salam: Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured an impressive victory over Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. However, one moment during the match left many fans confused. Fast bowler Rasikh Salam, who had delivered an excellent spell earlier in the game, was not permitted by the umpires to bowl the final over despite being ready to do so.
The decision raised questions among viewers and commentators alike. Here is a detailed explanation of what happened and the rule that prevented Rasikh Salam from completing his spell.
Rasikh Salam Makes His First Appearance in IPL 2026
Rasikh Salam finally got an opportunity in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru playing XI after missing the first three matches of the IPL 2026 season. He replaced Abhinandan Singh in the lineup for the high-profile clash against Mumbai Indians.
The 26-year-old pacer made a strong impression with the ball. Representing Jammu and Kashmir earlier in his career before moving to Baroda in domestic cricket, Rasikh Salam bowled with discipline and control throughout his spell.
He finished with figures of 1 wicket for 23 runs in 2.5 overs, making him the most economical fast bowler in the match. His key breakthrough came when he dismissed Mumbai Indians batter Naman Dhir, helping RCB maintain pressure during the run chase.
However, the young pacer struggled physically during his spell, which eventually led to the situation that prevented him from bowling the last over.
Injury Trouble During the 16th Over
During the 16th over of Mumbai Indians’ chase, Rasikh Salam appeared to be in discomfort. The pacer repeatedly pulled up while running in to bowl and required medical attention.
Team physios came onto the field twice to treat his left leg cramps, allowing him to continue bowling after short breaks. Despite the discomfort, Rasikh Salam showed determination and attempted to complete the over.
Unfortunately, on the third occasion he was unable to continue and walked off the field before delivering the final ball of the over. As a result, all-rounder Romario Shepherd had to bowl the last delivery of that over.
After receiving treatment off the field, Rasikh Salam eventually returned to the ground and looked ready to bowl again.
The Final Over Confusion
With Royal Challengers Bengaluru firmly in control of the match, captain Rajat Patidar initially handed the ball to Rasikh Salam to bowl the last over. At that moment, the result seemed almost certain in RCB’s favor.
However, the on-field umpires stepped in and stopped Salam from bowling. Instead, Romario Shepherd was asked to complete the final over of the innings.
Although Shepherd conceded 26 runs in that over, Mumbai Indians still fell short and RCB secured an 18-run victory.
But the big question remained: why was Rasikh Salam not allowed to bowl?
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The Rule That Prevented Rasikh Salam from Bowling
The explanation lies in MCC Law 24, commonly known as the “penalty time” rule.
According to this law, if a player leaves the field during an innings—whether for injury treatment or any other reason—they must spend an equivalent amount of time back on the field before they are allowed to bowl again.
This rule ensures that teams cannot give their bowlers rest breaks and bring them back immediately to bowl crucial overs.
Because Rasikh Salam left the field during the 16th over to receive treatment for cramps, he was required to serve the same amount of time back on the field before he could bowl again.
When the final over arrived, he had not yet completed the required penalty time, making him ineligible to bowl. That is why the umpires instructed Royal Challengers Bengaluru to use another bowler instead.
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A Brave Performance Despite the Setback
Although Rasikh Salam could not finish his spell, his performance was still one of the highlights of the match. Bowling through discomfort and cramps, he delivered a disciplined spell and helped RCB maintain control of the game.
For the young fast bowler, the match marked a promising return to the IPL stage. Despite the unusual rule-related moment at the end, Rasikh Salam’s effort played a key role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s victory over Mumbai Indians.
