There’s something refreshing about a cricketer who doesn’t let the price tag define his game. Auqib Nabi, picked by Delhi Capitals for ₹8.4 crore at the IPL 2026 auction, has one clear message ahead of his debut season: “I am not thinking about the outside noise. I am just trying to stick to my basics.” IANS News That kind of mental clarity is rare — and it’s exactly what DC are banking on.
From Unsold to Unstoppable — The Auqib Nabi Story
Before the big payday, Nabi had gone unsold in multiple IPL auctions, only getting net bowling opportunities. Cricket Country Then came a dream domestic season that changed everything.
| Stat | Detail |
|---|---|
| IPL 2026 Price | ₹8.4 Crore (Delhi Capitals) |
| Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Wickets | 60 wickets (Player of the Tournament) |
| Ranji Trophy Average | 12.56 |
| Five-wicket hauls | 7 |
| Syed Mushtaq Ali wickets | 15 in 7 games @ 7.41 economy |
| Duleep Trophy feat | 4 wickets in 4 balls |
| Age | 29 (born Nov 4, 1996, Baramulla) |
The 29-year-old was the driving force behind J&K’s historic maiden Ranji Trophy title, claiming 60 wickets at an average of 12.56 with seven five-fors.
What Makes Auqib Nabi Dangerous in T20s?
His red-ball pedigree speaks volumes, but Nabi isn’t changing his template for the IPL. His main weapon remains swing bowling — he plans to swing the ball from both sides, maintain a high-arm action, and target early breakthroughs with the new ball. Cricket Country
DC head coach Hemang Badani agrees. He has been tracking the pacer for over two-and-a-half years and sees him not just as a new-ball option, but also as an impact bowler in the death overs — adding that Nabi’s white-ball record has gone under the radar.
Even R. Ashwin has backed him. The former India spinner said it would be unfair to judge Nabi’s white-ball skills without giving him a proper chance.
Looking for more IPL 2026 player profiles and DC squad analysis? Check out our full coverage at TechnoSports.
DC Open vs LSG on April 1 — Nabi’s Big Stage Awaits
Delhi Capitals will open their IPL 2026 campaign against Lucknow Super Giants at the BRSABV Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on April 1. IANS News With Mitchell Starc unavailable early in the tournament, Nabi could walk straight into the playing XI.
His recovery routine? Classically no-fuss. Good sleep and good food — his formula for staying fresh through a packed season. Prokerala
Want to know how DC’s full squad stacks up? Read our IPL 2026 Delhi Capitals squad breakdown on TechnoSports.
