Srinagar: For years, Jammu & Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi has walked into every IPL auction with minimal expectations. At 29, he has felt the sting of repeated rejection. Yet, ahead of the IPL 2026 auction on December 16, even he admits things feel different this time.
“It feels different, but I can’t say exactly why,” Nabi told ESPNcricinfo. “If it doesn’t happen, I’m used to it. I’ll work even harder. But yes… this year, there’s some excitement.”
And there’s good reason for it.
Elite Domestic Form Driving the Buzz
Nabi has been one of India’s most impactful domestic performers over the last 18 months.
- 15 wickets in 7 SMAT matches (economy 7.41)
- A vital inning of 32 off 21 and 3-wicket haul vs Madhya Pradesh
- 29 wickets in 9 Ranji innings this season, including 7 for 24 against Rajasthan
- 44 wickets in the previous Ranji season — the best by any Indian seamer
He also grabbed headlines with four wickets in four balls at the Duleep Trophy, finally putting his name firmly in national conversations.
Despite these numbers, Nabi has repeatedly missed out on India A selections — something he openly admits has been “deflating.”
Trials With IPL Teams Raise Hope
This year, interest has grown. Nabi has already attended trials with Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians, with more franchise approaches clashing with his SMAT schedule.
“All the trials went well. Let’s see what happens on the 16th,” he says, though he isn’t sure he’ll even watch the auction live.
Staying Grounded Amid Expectations
While Nabi stays focused on performances and routines, outside pressure continues to swell.
“My family and friends say, ‘Is baar ho jayega.’ They look at the numbers. But luck plays a big role — who’s watching, how many balls you bowl at trials… everything matters.”
A Product of J&K’s Growing Cricket Culture
Coming from Baramulla, where even proper pitches were once hard to find, Nabi says the improved structure in J&K cricket has changed everything — camps, facilities, competitive mindsets.
Guided by bowling coach P Krishna Kumar, Nabi has built a diverse skillset: outswing, inswing, yorkers, slower bouncers, and death-overs discipline. Fitness, he says, has never been an issue.
Eyes on Two Dreams
While the IPL remains a cherished goal, Nabi holds another wish close:
“I’ll be happiest if I can help J&K win a domestic title.”
As expectations rise again, the pacer remains calm — but hopeful.
“If it happens, great. If not, I’ll go back to work. But yes… this year, there’s excitement.”
