Jammu and Kashmir’s cricket scene has reached a historic peak, resonating not only in stadiums but also in the highest corridors of Indian governance. Long ahead of schedule IPL 2026 season, prime minister Narendra Modi Mann Ki Baat used its latest appeal to celebrate the new national hero: Augib Nabi. The right-arm pacer who recently bagged a life-changing INR 8.40 crore deal Delhi Capitals (DC)became the poster child of the region’s sports renaissance.
Nabi’s rise from the harsh terrains of the North to the glitter of the IPL is a story of pride that transcends cricket. As the Delhi Capitals prepare to launch their new weapon, the Chief Minister’s recognition serves as a testament to Nabi’s role in J&K’s first-ever Ranji Trophy title and signals a change in the valley’s sporting fortunes.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hails DC’s Auqib Nabi as a national inspiration
Prime Minister Modi highlighted his monumental achievement during his address to the nation on Sunday Jammu and Kashmir cricket team. For a side that has waited seven decades to taste domestic glory, theirs Ranji Trophy 2025-26 the victory was nothing short of a fairy tale. Prime Minister Modi singled out Nabi’s contribution, noting that his success is now a topic of discussion across the country.
“The performance of young Kashmiri bowler Auquib Nabi, who scored 60 wickets in the Ranji season today, is being discussed across the country.“,” said the Prime Minister. He emphasized that Nabi’s journey culminating in a big IPL contract has acted as a catalyst for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. Focusing on Nabi’s discipline and ability, the Prime Minister emphasized that sports has become a key tool for integration and excellence. It has added prestige to Nabi’s upcoming debut for Delhi Capitals, where he is expected to translate this domestic dominance to the global stage.
Hubballi to Delhi: Nabi’s exceptional run in the domestic season
The stats behind Nabi’s selection for Delhi Capitals are staggering and justify the intense bidding war between the two countries. Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad eventually DC saw it for a whopping 8.40 crores. His Ranji Trophy campaign was a masterclass in seam bowling; he scored 60 in 17 overs and averaged 2.65. His ability to maintain a strike rate of 28.00 in red ball cricket proved that he is ready for the next level.
Nabi’s big-game temperament was most evident in the playoffs. He took back-to-back five wickets in the second semi-final and the final, including a career-defining 7/40. However, what makes him an IPL asset is his versatility. His white ball credentials are equally impressive:
- Vijay Hazare Trophy: 14 wickets in 7 innings (Econ: 5.77).
- Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: 15 wickets in 7 innings (Econ: 7.55).
Nabi’s ability to move the ball in both directions at high speed makes him a perfect fit for the Delhi Capitals bowling attack. As he prepares to pull on the DC jersey, he carries the weight of the Prime Minister’s praise and the dreams of a valley finally finding its voice through the roar of the stadium.
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