In snowy landscapes Jammu and KashmirWhere cricket is often a game played against the odds, a new hero has emerged to rewrite the history books. Augib NabiThe 29-year-old speedster from Baramulla has become the face of a cricketing revolution. For the first time in 67 years, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) have reached the final of the prestigious Ranji Trophy and at the heart of this historic rise is the man they call the ‘Baramulla Express’.
Nabi’s journey from the curfew faced streets of North Kashmir to becoming one of the most expensive players in the world IPL 2026 The auction is a story of courage, swing and unshakable faith in fate. His 2025-26 season was nothing short of legendary, culminating in a semi-final performance against Bengal that will be talked about for generations.
Who is Auqib Nabi? Know interesting facts about J&K pacer
Early life of Auqib
Born on November 4, 1996 in Sheeri, Baramulla, the rise of Auqib Nabi Dar is a classic tale of triumph over adversity. Growing up in a region where sports infrastructure was almost non-existent, Auqib spent his childhood imitating the bowling moves and fiery celebrations of his idol. Dale Steyn. His father, Ghulam Nabi DarA school teacher, Auqib, who initially hoped that his son would become a doctor, had his heart set on 22 yards.
During his first big test in Jammu, Auqib was shocked to learn that fast bowlers needed spiked shoes. After arriving with a basic pair of sneakers worth ₹500, he had to borrow a pair from a senior player to compete.
Domestic debut and success
Unlike child prodigies, Auqib was rejected for three consecutive years in trials before breaking into the Under-19 team in 2016. He made his first-class debut in 2020 and took five wickets against him. Jharkhand to announce his arrival.
His consistent domestic dominance finally reaped its financial reward in December 2025. A fierce four-way bidding war broke out between the two countries during the IPL 2026 mini-auction held in Abu Dhabi. Capitals of DelhiSunrisers Hyderabadand Rajasthan Royals. Finally, Delhi Capitals secured him for a staggering ₹ 8.40 crore, making him a ‘crorepati’ overnight.
Auqib’s dream run in Ranji Trophy 2025-26
Going into the 2026 final, Nabi has established himself as the best pacer in India. He became the first fast bowler to cross the 50-wicket mark in the current season with 55 from just 9 matches at 12.72.
Also READ: IPL 2026 Auction: Delhi Capitals (DC) Players Salary; Check how much Axar Patel and Auqib Nabi earn
Auqib Nabi’s all-round heroics took J&K to their first Ranji Trophy final
The road to the Ranji Trophy final is paved with the giants of Indian cricket – Karnataka and Bengal. For J&K to break this monopoly, they needed a miracle and Auqib provided just that. His season has been a masterclass in seam control and match-winning character.
against in the 1/4 finals Madhya PradeshNabi was unplayable, claiming 12 wickets (including a career-best 7/40) for 110 runs to lead J&K to a historic win. However, the semi-final against two-time champions Bengal at the Kalyani Cricket Academy ground really cemented his legacy.
The encounter was high-stakes drama. Returning Bengal Muhammad ShamiHe posted 328 in his first innings. Nabi led the charge with a tireless 5/87. As J&K struggled to 269/7 in reply, Nabi came out at number 9 and played a counter-attacking cameo of 42 runs from 54 balls, narrowing the deficit and changing the psychological momentum.
The real Baramulla Express show started in Bengal’s second innings. Nabi and his bowling partner on a pitch where Bengal expected to set a big target Sunil Kumar caused havoc. Bengal collapsed for just 25.1 runs for just 99 runs. Nebi’s 4/36 spells, including clearing legendary Abhimanyu Easwarangiving him a match with nine wickets.
Chasing 126 for history, J&K won by six wickets on a tense final day. Nabi was rightly named Player of the Matchwith both red cherry and willow dominating. As Jammu and Kashmir prepare for the summit clash, ‘Baramulla Dale Steyn’ stands on the cusp of ultimate domestic glory.
