In the snow-capped landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir, where cricket has often been a game played against the odds, a new hero has emerged to rewrite the history books. Auqib Nabi, the 29-year-old speedster from Baramulla, has become the face of a cricketing revolution. For the first time in 67 years, Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) has marched into the final of the prestigious Ranji Trophy, and at the heart of this historic surge is the man they call the “Baramulla Express.”
Nabi’s journey from the curfew-hit streets of North Kashmir to becoming one of the most expensive uncapped players in the IPL 2026 auction is a narrative of grit, swing, and an unwavering belief in destiny. His 2025-26 season has been nothing short of legendary, culminating in a semi-final performance against Bengal that will be talked about in the valley for generations.
Who is Auqib Nabi? Know interesting facts about the J&K pacer
Early life of Auqib
Born on November 4, 1996, in Sheeri, Baramulla, Auqib Nabi Dar’s rise is a classic tale of triumph over adversity. Growing up in a region where sporting infrastructure was nearly non-existent, Auqib spent his childhood imitating the bowling action and fiery celebrations of his idol, Dale Steyn. While his father, Ghulam Nabi Dar, a schoolteacher, initially hoped his son would become a doctor, Auqib’s heart was set on the 22 yards.
During his first major trials in Jammu, Auqib was shocked to learn that fast bowlers needed spiked shoes. Having arrived in basic sneakers worth ₹500, he had to borrow a pair from a senior player just to compete.
Domestic debut and success
Unlike child prodigies, Auqib was rejected in trials for three consecutive years before finally breaking into the Under-19 squad in 2016. He made his senior First-Class debut in 2020, taking a five-wicket haul against Jharkhand to announce his arrival.
His consistent domestic dominance finally met financial reward in December 2025. During the IPL 2026 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi, a fierce four-way bidding war erupted between Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Rajasthan Royals. Eventually, the Delhi Capitals secured him for a staggering ₹8.40 crore, making him a “crorepati” overnight.
Auqib’s dream run in Ranji Trophy 2025-26
Entering the 2026 final, Nabi has established himself as the premier pacer in India. He became the first fast bowler this season to cross the 50-wicket mark, currently sitting at 55 wickets from just 9 matches at a jaw-dropping average of 12.72.
Auqib Nabi’s all-round heroics powered J&K to their first ever Ranji Trophy final
The road to the Ranji Trophy final is paved with the giants of Indian cricket—Karnataka, and Bengal. For J&K to break this monopoly, they needed a miracle, and Auqib provided exactly that. His season has been a masterclass in seam control and match-winning temperament.
In the quarter-final against Madhya Pradesh, Nabi was unplayable, claiming 12 wickets for 110 runs (including a career-best 7/40) to lead J&K to a historic victory. However, it was the semi-final against two-time champions Bengal at the Kalyani Cricket Academy Ground that truly cemented his legacy.
The match was a high-stakes drama. Bengal, featuring a returning Mohammed Shami, posted 328 in their first innings. Nabi led the attack with a tireless 5/87. When J&K struggled at 269/7 in their reply, Nabi walked out at number nine and played a counter-attacking cameo of 42 runs off 54 balls, narrowing the deficit and shifting the psychological momentum.
The real “Baramulla Express” show began in Bengal’s second innings. On a pitch where Bengal expected to set a massive target, Nabi and his bowling partner Sunil Kumar wreaked havoc. Bengal collapsed for a mere 99 runs in just 25.1 overs. Nabi’s spell of 4/36, which included cleaning up the legendary Abhimanyu Easwaran, gave him a match haul of nine wickets.
Chasing 126 for history, J&K navigated a tense final day to win by six wickets. Nabi was rightfully named Player of the Match, having dominated with both the red cherry and the willow. As Jammu & Kashmir prepares for the summit clash, the “Dale Steyn of Baramulla” stands on the cusp of the ultimate domestic glory.
