Abu Dhabi: Delhi Capitals on Tuesday signed Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Aquib Nabi for Rs 8.40 crore during the TATA IPL 2026 auction held in Abu Dhabi, marking the highest-ever auction price for a cricketer from the region.
Aquib was among eight players from Jammu and Kashmir shortlisted for the auction, reflecting the growing presence of the region’s talent in domestic and national cricket circuits. Other J&K players in the auction list included all-rounder Lone Nasir Muzaffar, pacer Waseem Bashir Khanday, left-arm spin all-rounder Abid Mushtaq, batter Vivrant Sharma, opener Qamran Iqbal, fast bowler Atif Mushtaq, and off-spinner Murgan Ashwin.
Four players from Jammu and Kashmir have already been retained by their respective Indian Premier League franchises. Abdul Samad has been retained by Lucknow Super Giants, Umran Malik by Kolkata Knight Riders, Yudvir Singh Charak by Rajasthan Royals, and Rasikh Salam, now representing Baroda in domestic cricket, by Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
The auction featured a shortlist of 350 players, including 240 Indian and 110 overseas cricketers, selected by the Board of Control for Cricket in India from an initial pool of 1,390 aspirants.
Aquib Nabi’s selection follows consistent performances in domestic cricket. Since last season, he has taken 73 wickets in 13 First-Class matches. During the 2024–25 season, he claimed 44 wickets in eight matches, including six five-wicket hauls. In the current season, he has added 29 more wickets in red-ball cricket and picked up 15 wickets in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league stage.
Speaking after the auction, Aquib credited the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association for supporting his development and said the IPL would provide an opportunity to perform at a higher level. He also acknowledged the role of his family, coaches and JKCA officials in his journey.
The Jammu and Kashmir cricket fraternity welcomed Aquib’s selection, terming it a significant milestone for the region. Former players and sports administrators extended congratulations, calling the deal a landmark moment for cricket in Jammu and Kashmir. [KNT]
