- Nationality
India- Cricket
- Auqib Nabi
- Current Team
- DC
A high-velocity right-arm pacer with the ability to swing the ball both ways at 140+ kmph, Auqib Nabi (born November 4, 1996) is the latest sensation from Jammu & Kashmir to take the cricketing world by storm. Hailing from Baramulla, Nabi’s rise is a story of extreme perseverance—from borrowing spikes for trials to becoming one of the most expensive uncapped players in IPL history.
As of January 20, 2026, Auqib Nabi is the talk of the town after being signed by the Delhi Capitals (DC) for a staggering ₹8.40 Crore in the December 2025 auction. He enters the 2026 season in peak form, fresh from a record-breaking domestic season where he emerged as the leading fast bowler in the country.
Auqib Nabi: Player Profile & 2026 Career Milestone
The “Dale Steyn of Baramulla” Breakthrough
Auqib Nabi modeled his high-arm action and aggressive follow-through after his idol, Dale Steyn. His breakthrough into the national consciousness came during the 2025 Duleep Trophy, where representing North Zone, he achieved the rare feat of taking four wickets in four balls against East Zone. This performance, combined with his consistent pace, made him the primary target for several franchises heading into the 2026 IPL mega-auction.
Domestic Dominance: The Swing King of J&K
The 2024–25 and 2025–26 domestic seasons have been a masterclass in pace bowling from Nabi.
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Ranji Trophy 2024–25: He finished as the highest wicket-taker among all fast bowlers in India, claiming 44 wickets at a remarkable average of 13.93.
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Ranji Trophy 2025–26: In October 2025, he produced a dream spell of 7/24 against Rajasthan, helping J&K secure a historic innings victory. He also showcased his “all-rounder” potential in the same match by scoring his maiden First-Class fifty (55 off 65 balls).
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Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025: He claimed 15 wickets in 7 matches, proving he is just as lethal in the shortest format with his improved death-bowling variations.
IPL 2026: The Capitals’ Multi-Crore Investment
In an intense bidding war involving Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Delhi Capitals ultimately secured Nabi for ₹8.40 Crore. Under the leadership of KL Rahul and the tactical guidance of the DC coaching staff, Auqib is expected to lead the domestic pace attack alongside Mitchell Starc.
“I used to borrow spikes from seniors because I couldn’t afford them. Now, my only dream is to wear the India whites and make my father proud.” — Auqib Nabi after his IPL selection.
Auqib Nabi: Career Statistics
Data consolidated as of January 20, 2026.
Bowling Performance
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Best Bowling | Average | Economy | Strike Rate |
| First-Class (Ranji) | 36 | 125 | 7/24 | 19.98 | 2.80 | 41.20 |
| List A (VHT) | 29 | 42 | 4/39 | 28.88 | 4.98 | 34.10 |
| T20 (Domestic/SMAT) | 42 | 43 | 4/16 | 24.00 | 7.41 | 18.20 |
| IPL 2026 | Debut Pending | – | – | – | – | – |
Batting Summary
| Format | Matches | Runs | High Score | Average | Strike Rate | 50s |
| First-Class | 36 | 870 | 55 | 18.91 | 68.50 | 1 |
| List A | 29 | 351 | 45* | 20.64 | 88.20 | 0 |
| T20 Career | 42 | 194 | 32 | 14.00 | 116.67 | 0 |
