The build up to the Indian Premier League auction often creates a whirlwind of speculation, turning relatively unknown domestic performers into overnight sensations before a single paddle is raised. For Auqib Nabi, a 29 year old fast bowler from Baramulla in Jammu & Kashmir, the noise surrounding the 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi is loud, but he has learned to tune it out. After years of grinding in the domestic circuit, he has finally earned his place in the big leagues, as Delhi Capitals splashed Rs.8.4 cr on his purchase.
Nabi has undoubtedly presented a compelling case for himself this season. His recent performances in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy have been nothing short of stellar, where he claimed 15 wickets in just seven matches while maintaining an impressive economy rate of 7.41. This ability to pick up wickets while keeping the scoring rate in check is a commodity highly valued by franchises. Furthermore, his red ball form in the Ranji Trophy has been equally dominant, highlighted by a career best spell of 7 for 24 against Rajasthan. These numbers describe a bowler who is hitting his peak at the right moment, demonstrating the versatility to swing the new ball and deliver under pressure at the death. Nabi, who hits the deck hard and moves the ball off the seam, is an ideal contingency plan for IPL teams, as Delhi showed to believe.
However, Nabi is acutely aware that expert predictions do not always translate into auction bids. He has seen talented peers go unsold in previous years, and he understands the fickle nature of the auction dynamics. The “crorepati” tag is enticing, but for a player who has risen through the ranks of J&K cricket, the primary goal remains securing an opportunity to showcase his talent on the biggest stage, regardless of the price tag. His journey from the nets in Baramulla to being discussed on national television is a testament to his persistence, yet he knows that the final hurdle of getting a team to lift the paddle is out of his control.
The interest in players from Jammu & Kashmir has grown significantly following the rapid rise of Umran Malik. Franchises are now more willing to scout talent from the region, looking for the next breakout star. Nabi represents the next wave of this talent pool. Unlike Malik’s raw express pace, Nabi relies on control, seam movement, and tactical awareness. He has matured into a leader for his state side, often taking the new ball and breaking partnerships when the team needs it most.
Amidst the hoopla bound to come his way, those closest to Auqib Nabi believe he will maintain a stoic demeanor. He knows that in the high stakes environment of the IPL auction, hope is a dangerous thing if not tempered with reality. His domestic excellence has finally be rewarded with an IPL contract, but until he hits the pitch, he prefers to let his bowling figures do the talking.
