Jammu and Kashmir cricket witnessed a proud moment at the IPL Season 19 mini auction as Auqib Nabi Dar, a fast bowler from Baramulla, was snapped up by Delhi Capitals for ₹8.40 crore, emerging as one of the standout Indian signings of the auction.
The deal crowns years of hard work by the 28-year-old, who has established himself as a key figure for Jammu and Kashmir on the domestic circuit. Renowned for his ability to swing the ball, maintain disciplined lines, and perform under pressure, Auqib has consistently delivered strong performances across formats.
His rise accelerated in the latest Ranji Trophy season, where he produced several match-winning spells and finished with 44 wickets, placing him among the tournament’s top wicket-takers. Those performances against strong domestic sides triggered intense bidding at the auction. In addition to his bowling, Auqib has contributed valuable runs lower down the order, further enhancing his value to franchises.
Back home, the achievement sparked celebrations across Baramulla. The Baramulla Cricket Forum (BCF) marked the occasion at Carriappa Park, with crackers and sweets distributed in jubilation. Relatives and neighbours thronged his home in Sheeri, Baramulla, congratulating the family and sharing in the joyous moment.
Cricketing circles across the Valley hailed the development as a major boost for local cricket, describing it as an inspiration for young players aspiring to reach the highest level through domestic performances. As he prepares to don Delhi Capitals colours in the upcoming IPL season, Auqib Nabi Dar carries the pride and hopes of J&K Baramulla on his shoulders.
As he prepares to don Delhi Capitals colours in the upcoming IPL season, Auqib carries the pride and hopes of J&K Baramulla on his shoulders. His father, Ghulam Nabi Dar, had initially wanted his son to focus on academics, wary of a sporting career that offered no guarantees, especially in a region where opportunities are scarce.
It is only over the past two seasons that Auqib Nabi Dar has truly come into his own. The turning point came with a hat-trick in the Duleep Trophy, a spell that announced him to the wider domestic circuit. Since then, his rise has been steady rather than spectacular, built on control, clarity and an understanding of his own craft.
Technically, Nabi is an intriguing bowler. He has worked hard on developing a delivery that straightens after pitching, a subtle weapon that repeatedly draws batsmen into misjudgement.
Despite operating around the 130 kmph mark, he maintains a near-perfect seam position, allowing him to hit the bat harder than many would envisage at that pace.
Earlier, several players from Jammu and Kashmir Abdul Samad, Umran Malik, Parvez Rasool, Rasikh Salam, Yudhvir Singh, Mohammad Mudhasir and Manzoor Pandav have also represented IPL franchises, gaining valuable exposure at the top level.
