Srinagar: Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has lavished rich praise on Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi following his extraordinary performance in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, describing him as an “absolute champion” and one of the most dominant fast bowlers in recent domestic cricket history.
Taking to social media platform X, Karthik urged young cricketers across the country to draw inspiration from Nabi’s remarkable journey, calling his campaign a blueprint for breaking into the Indian national team.
“Watching this Ranji Trophy campaign and following it closely, one thing I can say for certain — for all the young boys and girls wanting to represent the country — do it the Auqib Nabi way,” Karthik wrote.
The former India star said he could not recall a fast bowler in recent years who had dominated an entire domestic season with such consistency and impact.
“Can’t think of any pacer/player in a long time doing what he’s done — domination from start to end, almost single-handedly winning the domestic tournament that matters the most,” he added.
Consistency, Fitness & Mental Strength
Karthik highlighted Nabi’s exceptional fitness and mental toughness, applauding his ability to deliver long spells across varying pitch and weather conditions.
“Bowling long spells, across different soils and weather, with or without assistance — he has always believed he can strike for his team. Hats off to you, Auqib. You’re an absolute champion,” Karthik said.
Outstanding Tournament Numbers
Auqib Nabi has been instrumental in Jammu and Kashmir’s historic run to the Ranji Trophy final. The right-arm pacer is currently the second-highest wicket-taker of the tournament, having picked up 58 wickets in 10 matches at an astonishing average of 12.62, including six five-wicket hauls and two four-wicket hauls.
Ranji Trophy Final: J&K in Command
Meanwhile, first-time finalists Jammu and Kashmir are in a strong position against eight-time champions Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final at the KSCA Hubballi Cricket Ground.
Batting first, J&K posted a mammoth 584 runs, powered by Shubham Pundir’s brilliant 121 and valuable contributions from Yawer Hassan (88). Karnataka pacer Prasidh Krishna led the bowling effort with figures of 5/98.
In reply, Karnataka reached 220/5 at stumps on Day 3, with Mayank Agarwal unbeaten on 130. However, early dismissals of KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal and Karun Nair kept Jammu and Kashmir firmly on top.
With momentum, discipline, and star performances led by Auqib Nabi, Jammu and Kashmir are now chasing a historic maiden Ranji Trophy title, scripting one of the most inspiring stories in Indian domestic cricket.
