in snow covered landscapes Jammu and KashmirWhile cricket has often been a game played in adverse conditions, a new hero has emerged to rewrite the history books. Auqib NabiThe 29-year-old fast bowler from Baramulla has become the face of the cricket revolution. For the first time in 67 years, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has entered the final of the prestigious Ranji Trophy, and at the center of this historic surge is the man they call the “Baramulla Express”.
Nabi’s journey from the curfew-ridden streets of North Kashmir to becoming one of the most expensive uncapped players ipl 2026 The auction is a story of patience, enthusiasm and unwavering faith in destiny. Their 2025-26 season was nothing short of great, culminating in a semi-final performance against Bengal that will be talked about for generations in the valley.
Who is Auqib Nabi? Know interesting facts about the fast bowler of Jammu and Kashmir
Auqib’s early life
Born on November 4, 1996 in Sheeree, Baramulla, the rise of Auqib Nabi Dar is a classic story of triumph over adversity. Growing up in an area where sporting infrastructure was almost non-existent, Auqib spent his childhood imitating his idol’s bowling actions and passionate celebrations. dale steyn. While his father, Ghulam Nabi DarA school teacher, initially hopeful that his son would become a doctor, Auqib’s heart was at 22 yards.
During his first major trial in Jammu, Oqib was surprised to learn that fast bowlers needed shoes with spikes. Having come across basic sneakers worth ₹500, he had to borrow a pair from a senior player to compete.
Domestic debut and success
Unlike talented kids, Auqib was rejected for trials for three consecutive years before joining the under-19 team in 2016. He made his senior first-class debut in 2020, taking five wickets against. Jharkhand To announce his arrival.
Their consistent domestic dominance finally got financial rewards in December 2025. During the IPL 2026 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi, a fierce four-way bidding war broke out Delhi CapitalsSunrisers HyderabadAnd Rajasthan Royals. Eventually, Delhi Capitals secured him for a whopping sum of ₹8.40 crore, making him a “crorepati” overnight.
Auqib’s dream run in Ranji Trophy 2025-26
Heading into the 2026 finals, Nabi has established himself as India’s premier fast bowler. He became the first fast bowler to cross the 50-wicket mark this season, currently taking 55 wickets in just 9 matches at an impressive average of 12.72.
Auqib Nabi’s all-round heroics take Jammu and Kashmir to Ranji Trophy final for the first time
The path to the Ranji Trophy final has been cleared with the giants of Indian cricket – Karnataka and Bengal. J&K needed a miracle to break this monopoly, and Auqib provided exactly that. His season has been a masterclass in seam control and match-winning flair.
in the quarter finals against Madhya PradeshNabi remained unbeaten, taking 12 wickets for 110 runs (including a career-best 7/40) to lead Jammu and Kashmir to a historic win. However, it was the semi-final against two-time champions Bengal at the Kalyani Cricket Academy Ground that really cemented his legacy.
The match was a high-stakes drama. Bengal, featuring a comeback Mohammed ShamiScored 328 runs in his first innings. Nabi tirelessly led the attack with 5/87. When Jammu and Kashmir struggled at 269/7 in their reply, Nabi came in at number nine and hit a counter-inning of 42 off 54 balls, reducing the deficit and changing the psychological momentum.
The real “Baramulla Express” show began in Bengal’s second innings. On a pitch where Bengal were expected to set a big target, Nabi and his bowling partners Sunil Kumar Wreaked havoc. The entire Bengal team collapsed for 99 runs in just 25.1 overs. Nabi’s spell of 4/36, which also included clean bowling the veteran Abhimanyu EaswaranGave him a match haul of nine wickets.
Chasing a historic 126, Jammu and Kashmir won by six wickets on a tense final day. The prophet was named correctly player of the matchDominating both red cherry and willow. As Jammu and Kashmir prepares for a summit clash, “Dale Steyn of Baramulla” stands at the pinnacle of ultimate domestic glory.
