A new cricket sensation Auqib Nabi Dar who recently secured a life-changing Rs 8.40 crore deal with the Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2026 auction is a proud name for whom greetings and congratulatory messages are pouring in from all quarters of J&K. The official Delhi Capitals Instagram page welcomed him, calling him J&K's finest.
Young though, he clinched a prestigious niche in the IPL history, not as a miracle or magic. Years of practice in grounds and open spaces of district Baramulla and perseverance of consistent hardwork earned him this reward, which is being celebrated by the people of the UT . In essence, Auqib Dar's story is one of perseverance, turning adversity into success, and marking a significant moment for cricket in Kashmir, in partcular for more than just one reason. His journey from a local village cricketer to an "IPL crorepati" has become a source of immense pride and inspiration not only in his hometown, instead across the UT. His success, a result of a decade of hard work and dedication, has been celebrated widely in his village, seen as proof that sports can transform lives.
The pace sensation from Sheeri,in Baramulla Kashmir rose from humble beginnings to become an IPL star after being bought by Delhi Capitals for a massive Rs 8.40 crore in the IPL 2026 auction, a dream realized through relentless hard work, consistent domestic performances like 15 wickets in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy & 29 wickets in Ranji Trophy, and showcasing all-round skills, inspiring his community and bringing hope to Kashmiri youth.
The son of a modest household from Sheeri village in Baramulla, the speedster, known for his relentless discipline and match-winning spells in domestic cricket, has turned into an overnight crorepati, a dream for many. For those who have watched his journey closely, perhaps for his ownself too, the moment felt inevitable rather than accidental as he was sure one day he will make it. Auqib comes from a modest and closely knit family.
Auqib started his journey from the narrow lanes and makeshift pitches of Sheeri, honing his skills with the local cricket team Sheeri Star before moving to BCC Reds and then breaking into state-level cricket. A down-to-earth professional with ice in his veins and fire in his run-up, Auqib always carried one burning dream and desire in his heart that a day will come in his career soon when he would get to wear the IPL team jersey.
During the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy, Auqib announced himself as a force to reckon with, finishing the first half of the season as the only seamer among the top five wicket-takers nationwide. He claimed 29 wickets in nine innings, including three five-wicket hauls, highlighted by a sensational 7 for 24 against Rajasthan, a spell that powered Jammu and Kashmir into the knockout stages.
His dominance was no flash in the pan. In the 2024–25 Ranji season, Auqib topped the national charts among pacers with 44 wickets at a staggering average of 13.93, outperforming seasoned bowlers across teams. Only Vidarbha all-rounder Harsh Dubey surpassed him overall.
Follow us
