Srinagar, Dec 16: From a quiet Baramulla village to cricket’s biggest auction room, Auqib Nabi’s pace finally found its perfect length.
Snapped up for Rs 8.40 crore by Delhi Capitals, the J&K fast bowler’s IPL entry caps years of grind, turning domestic consistency into a life-changing breakthrough on the sport’s grandest stage.
On Tuesday, Auqib scripted a landmark moment in his career after he was snapped up by Delhi Capitals for Rs 8.40 crore at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction, marking his maiden entry into the world’s biggest franchise T20 league.
Soon after Auqib was sold, celebrations went on across J&K cricket circles, as he emerged as one of the most high-profile buys from the region.
Notably, Auqib’s selection comes on the back of consistent performances across formats, particularly his impressive outings in the recent domestic season, where his pace, discipline, and ability to strike at crucial moments stood out.
His rise had already generated strong buzz ahead of the auction, with multiple franchises tracking his progress during trials.
Speaking earlier to Greater Kashmir, Auqib had expressed optimism but remained grounded.
“You don’t think too much about selection or rejection. You just keep working hard. Whatever happens, happens,” he said.
Soon after Auqib was sold to Delhi Capitals, celebrations erupted in Sheeri village in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, where locals gathered outside his residence to congratulate the family and celebrate the young cricketer’s achievement.
People from the area expressed happiness and pride over Auqib’s success, terming it a historic moment for local cricket. At home, emotions ran high as the hammer finally came down in his favour. Auqib’s father, Ghulam Nabi Dar, who had spoken of belief and patience ahead of the auction, said the moment was a reward for years of perseverance.
“We always believed in his hard work. As a family, we prayed and left everything to Allah,” he said.
Speaking to Greater Kashmir, Dar said the family’s joy knew no bounds.
“I’ve no words. I’m thankful to Allah. Auqib worked hard, and today he has received the reward for that hard work,” he said.
Local cricket and sports bodies also joined the celebrations, stating that when Auqib returns after the IPL, his visit to the area should be marked as a historic occasion.
Auqib has been in remarkable form this season, delivering consistent performances across tournaments, particularly in the Duleep Trophy, Ranji Trophy, and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT).
During the bidding process, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) also showed interest in the J&K pacer.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) also engaged in a strong bidding battle for the J&K pacer before Delhi Capitals eventually secured him.
The achievement also drew congratulatory messages from several political leaders of J&K.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, in a post on microblogging site ‘X’, congratulated Auqib Nabi on the landmark deal, saying the entire region was proud of the young fast bowler.
“Congratulations to Auqib Nabi Dar for this amazing achievement. We are all very proud of him and I’m pleased that his hard work has been rewarded. Now we wait for the season to start so we can celebrate Auqib’s successes. Speaking for myself, I’m now a Delhi Capitals supporter and can’t wait to cheer them on from the sidelines,” CM Omar posted.
Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Party (JKPCC) President Tariq Hameed Karra also extended his heartiest congratulations to Auqib.
“This historic accomplishment is a matter of immense pride not only for Auqib and his family, but for the entire youth of J&K. His dedication, discipline, and hard work have truly paid off, proving that talent from our region can shine on the biggest national and international platforms,” he said in a statement. “I wish Auqib great success in the IPL and in his future cricketing career. May he continue to excel, inspire countless young aspirants, and bring laurels to J&K and the country.”
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) legislator Waheed Para termed Auqib’s IPL contract a proud moment for J&K, highlighting the depth of sporting talent in the region.
“Proud moment for the whole J&K! Auqib Nabi, son of the soil, makes it big with Rs 8.4 crore IPL contract, a proof of raw talent from J&K. Handholding and the right direction are key; we have no shortage of talent. Sports has always remained a priority, and such achievements reaffirm our commitment to nurturing the talent,” Para posted on X.