Jammu & Kashmir cricket is witnessing a historic phase, and one name stands at the center of this success Auqib Nabi Dar. The 29-year-old right-arm medium pacer has emerged as the team’s biggest match-winner in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, earning Player of the Match awards in both the quarterfinal and semifinal and helping J&K reach the final for the first time.
With consistent performances, control, and swing, Auqib has become one of the most impactful fast bowlers in Indian domestic cricket this season.
Who is Auqib Nabi Dar?
Auqib Nabi Dar was born on November 4, 1996, in Baramulla, Jammu & Kashmir. Known for his ability to swing the ball both ways and maintain tight line and length, he made his first-class debut in January 2020.
Over the years, he has grown into a dependable new-ball bowler and a useful lower-order batter. His rise has been rewarded with a major opportunity as Delhi Capitals signed him for ₹8.40 crore ahead of IPL 2026, marking a big milestone in his career.
Auqib Nabi Career Stats
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Average | Best Bowling | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Class | 39 | 142 | 18.9 | 7/24 | 925 |
| List A | 36 | 56 | 27.4 | 4/39 | 572 |
| T20 | 34 | 43 | 21.7 | 4/16 | 141 |
Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Season of Dominance
Auqib Nabi has been one of the standout performers in the Ranji Trophy this season. He has taken 50+ wickets at an impressive average of 12.54, one of the best among leading bowlers. His ability to deliver in big matches has played a key role in Jammu & Kashmir’s historic campaign.
AUQIB NABI DAR IN THIS RANJI TROPHY 2025-26:
- Matches – 9.
- Wickets – 55.
- Average – 12.72.
- Economy – 2.67.
- 5 wicket hauls – 6.
- Best figure – 7/24.
| Match | Performance | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Quarterfinal vs Madhya Pradesh | 12 wickets (7/40 & 5/70) | J&K won by 56 runs |
| Semifinal vs Bengal | 9 wickets (5/87 & 4/36) + 42 runs | J&K reached first-ever final |
His semifinal spell helped bowl Bengal out for just 99 in the second innings, sealing a memorable victory.
Also see: PAK vs NAM Match Preview, Head to Head, Pitch Report, Playing XI, Live Streaming
Records and Recent Achievements
Auqib’s consistency over the past two seasons highlights his growth as a top domestic pacer.
- 50+ wickets in Ranji Trophy 2025-26
- 5 five-wicket hauls in the season
- 75+ wickets across the last two Ranji seasons
- Among the leading fast bowlers in domestic cricket
- Took 4 wickets in 4 balls for North Zone in Duleep Trophy
These performances have made him one of the most exciting pace prospects from the region.
What Makes Him Special?
Auqib Nabi’s strength lies in discipline and control. He uses natural swing, attacks the stumps, and keeps pressure on batters for long spells. His ability to perform in knockout matches shows strong temperament, which is crucial at higher levels.
For Jammu & Kashmir, he has become more than just a bowler he is now the leader of the attack and a symbol of the team’s rise.
Jammu & Kashmir will now face Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final, and all eyes will once again be on Auqib Nabi. With IPL 2026 also coming up, strong performances could open doors for bigger opportunities at the national level.
From Baramulla to the Ranji Trophy final, Auqib Nabi’s journey is a story of hard work, patience, and belief — and his best may still be ahead.
