Ravichandran Ashwin dropped a major shock ahead of the IPL 2026 auction by making one of the most mysterious and explosive signings of the season. Actually, Ravichandran Ashwin shared a cryptic social media post which immediately caught the attention of fans, franchises and IPL insiders.
Everyone expected the IPL 2026 auction to include big global names like Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, but the former Indian off-spinner pointed in a completely unexpected direction that no one expected.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s cryptic hint reveals surprise favorites for IPL 2026
Ashwin shared a collage of former Pakistan fast bowler and current national selector Aaqib Javed as well as Afghanistan’s veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi.
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There was no text, no explanation, and no hint, but the only clues were two emojis – distorted eyes and a shaking hand. This post was enough to spark a big debate on the social platform. The message behind the post became clear within minutes.
What Aish is trying to say here is that Auqib Nabi will be a hot property #IPLAuction And he is not wrong. So far five franchises have shown interest in him. Which team would you like to see him in? https://t.co/u4vbfSfcGG
– Mohsin Kamal (@64MohsinKamal) 2 December 2025
Ravichandran Ashwin was actually referring to Indian fast bowler Auqib Nabi, who has suddenly become one of the most sought-after players ahead of the IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi later this month.
Ravichandran Ashwin makes Auqib Nabi the center of IPL 2026 auction drama
The buzz about the young fast bowler has grown so fast that at least five teams have already shown keen interest in picking him up in the IPL 2026 auction.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s timing added more heat to the fire, especially because many fans believe that his former franchise, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), could be preparing a surprise chase for Nabi.
CSK have a long history of identifying hidden gems, and the signing of Ravichandran Ashwin has only fueled rumors that the Yellow Army could make a bold move in the auction as Nabi’s rise has been impressive.
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His domestic performances, consistent pace and ability to perform well under pressure have made him one of the most talked-about names of the 2026 auction.
Who is Auqib Nabi?
Meanwhile, Auqib Nabi has become one of the most exciting names in Indian domestic cricket. After impressing everyone in Ranji Trophy, now he is spreading his magic in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy also.
The 29-year-old fast bowler from Baramulla once again proved his talent by taking a brilliant four wickets against Bihar in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 match of Jammu and Kashmir.
His 4/16 and two quick catches helped Jammu and Kashmir defeat Bihar by 34 runs at the Eden Gardens, earning him the Player of the Match award.
The rise of Nabi has been going on for two seasons. In the Ranji Trophy, he has been the most consistent fast bowler, taking 10 five-wicket hauls since the start of the 2024–25 season.
He also made headlines by taking four wickets in four balls for North Zone against East Zone in the Duleep Trophy in August 2025. His 2024–25 Ranji season ended with 44 wickets at an excellent average of 13.93 – the most among fast bowlers.
In the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season, Nabi already has 29 wickets at an average of 13.27. Despite his remarkable performances, Nabi is yet to receive an India A call-up. But his performance at the domestic level is likely to take him to the IPL stage to showcase his talent to the world.