Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir pace spearhead Auqib Nabi delivered a masterclass in fast bowling on Day 3 of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final against Karnataka, dismissing established stars KL Rahul, Karun Nair, and Smaran Ravichandran with a spell that underlined both skill and fearlessness.
Reflecting on his match-turning performance, Nabi said his approach remains simple and uncompromising: focus on execution, not reputation.
“My mindset is to bowl without looking at the batsman. I stick to my line and length and don’t leave the channel. If you are bowling well, there are no difficult batsmen,” Nabi said after stumps.
Fearless Approach Against Big Names
The trio of Rahul, Karun, and Smaran boast nearly 20,000 first-class runs between them, with Rahul and Karun having featured in 77 Test matches for India. Yet, Nabi’s disciplined spell rendered them ineffective — Rahul managed just three runs off Nabi, while Karun and Smaran failed to score against him.
His relentless accuracy and ability to maintain pressure through long spells played a decisive role in tilting the match firmly in Jammu and Kashmir’s favour.
Bowling in the Right Areas
Nabi credited his success to unwavering discipline and consistency, especially on a batting-friendly surface.
“The pitch was good for batting, but if you bowl in good areas, there is always something in it. I just wanted to hit the right spot ball after ball,” he explained.
Milestone Moment
The 29-year-old’s brilliant spell also helped him cross a major career landmark, as he became one of the fastest bowlers to claim 100 Ranji Trophy wickets in just two seasons, taking his tally to 102 scalps.
Often compared to Indian pace spearhead Mohammed Shami for his upright wrist position and seam control, Nabi once again showcased the hallmark traits of high-quality fast bowling.
“If you have a straight wrist, everything becomes easy. The movement comes from the wrist, and for a fast bowler, that is very important,” he said.
With Jammu and Kashmir eyeing a historic maiden Ranji Trophy title, Auqib Nabi’s fearless mindset and clinical execution continue to define one of the most memorable domestic seasons in recent Indian cricket history.
