Uncapped Indian right-arm pacer Auqib Nabi Dar emerged as one of the biggest surprises of the IPL 2026 mini-auction, with Delhi Capitals (DC) securing his services for a whopping Rs 8.40 crore. The Jammu & Kashmir fast bowler had entered the auction with a base price of just Rs 30 lakh, but strong interest from multiple franchises triggered a fierce bidding war that pushed his value well beyond expectations.
This marks Auqib Nabi’s maiden IPL contract, underlining the growing premium franchises are placing on high-performing domestic fast bowlers.
Breakout domestic season fuels demand
Auqib Nabi’s rapid rise is backed by exceptional performances in the 2024–25 domestic season across formats. In the Ranji Trophy, he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker among pacers, claiming 44 wickets at an outstanding average of 13.93. His impact performances included a sensational 7 for 24 match haul against Rajasthan, which firmly put him on the national radar.
In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, the right-arm pacer continued his consistency, picking up 15 wickets in seven matches for Jammu & Kashmir. He also made headlines in the Duleep Trophy, where he created history by becoming the first bowler to take four wickets in four consecutive deliveries, representing North Zone.
Skill over speed
Despite not being an express quick, Auqib’s effectiveness lies in his skill, control, and ability to swing the new ball, while remaining reliable at the death. Jammu & Kashmir’s Ranji Trophy bowling coach P Krishna Kumar has consistently backed the young pacer, highlighting his natural action and adaptability.
“When I came to J&K as coach, it was evident Auqib had a beautiful natural bowling action, like Mohammad Shami’s wrist position. His outswinger needed variations, and he picked those up quickly. He learns fast,” Krishna said, adding that Auqib’s pace range of 125–131 kmph should not overshadow his wicket-taking ability.
Auqib himself has been clear about his philosophy, stressing that skills matter more than raw pace. “Speed isn’t everything. If I can deliver wickets, that’s what teams need,” the Baramulla-born pacer has said.
Delhi Capitals’ big bet
After attracting interest from multiple teams, Delhi Capitals eventually won the bidding battle at Rs 8.40 crore, making Auqib Nabi Dar one of the most expensive uncapped Indian players of the IPL 2026 auction. DC’s investment reflects their intent to build a strong Indian pace core, banking on domestic performers with proven red-ball and white-ball credentials.
With his ability to move the ball early, maintain discipline, and strike in key phases, Auqib Nabi Dar now steps into the IPL spotlight, carrying both expectations and an opportunity to translate his domestic dominance onto the biggest T20 stage.
