Auqib Nabi Set to Make IPL Debut with Delhi Capitals After Stellar Domestic Season

Auqib Nabi, a talented fast bowler from Jammu and Kashmir, is set to debut in IPL 2026 with the Delhi Capitals after an outstanding domestic season. His journey, marked by humble beginnings and significant influences like Parvez Rasool and Irfan Pathan, showcases his dedication to cricket. Nabi's remarkable performance in the Ranji Trophy, where he took 60 wickets, led to his acquisition by the Capitals for ₹8.4 crore. As he prepares for his first match against the Mumbai Indians, Nabi reflects on the emotional moments of his cricketing career and his aspirations to represent India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 3, 2026, 19:47 IST

Auqib Nabi's Journey to IPL 2026

Jammu and Kashmir's fast bowler, Auqib Nabi, is gearing up for his debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 with the Delhi Capitals, following an impressive domestic season. In a conversation on JioStar, Nabi shared his inspiring journey alongside Irfan Pathan, reflecting on his early days and the emotional experience of the auction.

Early Life and Inspirations

Auqib Nabi discussed his childhood and the motivations behind his pursuit of fast bowling. "I began playing cricket with tennis balls in the 5th or 6th grade. There weren't many places to practice in Baramulla, so we often played on the roads or small school grounds. Watching Dale Steyn's ability to swing the ball at high speeds inspired me to aim for a career in cricket, hoping to represent India one day. My father often scolded me for playing cricket, as he wanted me to become a doctor," Nabi recounted.

Influence of Local Heroes

Parvez Rasool, a veteran all-rounder from Jammu and Kashmir, significantly influenced Nabi during his formative years. Rasool made his ODI and T20I debuts for India in 2014 and 2017, respectively. Nabi expressed, "Seeing Parvez Rasool succeed after performing well in the IPL motivated me immensely. He is from a local village in Jammu and Kashmir, which made his achievements feel attainable. My first notable performance was during the Under-19 trials for the Jammu and Kashmir team, where I borrowed spikes from a senior player for my debut."

Guidance from Irfan Pathan

Irfan Pathan played a crucial role in Nabi's early cricketing career. Nabi recalled, "When Irfan bhai became the mentor for Jammu and Kashmir, I was part of the Under-23 team, and my performances caught his attention. He guided me through my debut for the senior team and provided invaluable tips. Working with a legend like Irfan bhai was a remarkable experience."

Outstanding Domestic Performance

In the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, the 29-year-old Nabi took 60 wickets, leading Jammu and Kashmir to their first domestic title. He achieved this feat over 10 matches (17 innings) with an impressive average of 12.56, including seven five-wicket hauls, making him the tournament's leading wicket-taker. Following his remarkable performance, he was acquired by the Delhi Capitals for ₹8.4 crore during the 2026 IPL auction.

Emotional Auction Experience

Reflecting on the emotional moment of being selected in the IPL auction after his Duleep Trophy success, Nabi shared, "I set a rare record in the Duleep Trophy by taking four wickets in four consecutive balls while playing for the North Zone. This garnered significant media attention and boosted my confidence for the IPL auction. On auction day, I was at home with my family, and when my name was called, there was a brief pause before any team bid. I thought I might not get picked, but then the paddles went up, and everyone at home became emotional. It was a culmination of years of hard work. The pressure of the price tag doesn't matter; I just want to make my mark in the IPL and aim for a spot on the national team."

Upcoming IPL Debut

Auqib Nabi is anticipated to make his IPL debut on Saturday as the Delhi Capitals face off against the Mumbai Indians at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.