Auqib Nabi plans to build a cricket academy in Baramulla after IPL windfall of Rs 8.40 crore

Jammu and Kashmir's fast bowler, Auqib Nabi, is now set to realize his ambition of opening a cricket academy in Baramulla. This dream is now within reach thanks to a lucrative ₹8.40 crore contract with Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Nabi's acquisition by Delhi Capitals was the result of competitive bidding, with the final price reaching 28 times his base price of ₹30 lakh.

Nabi's journey to the IPL has been marked by impressive performances. He showcased his skills in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Ranji Trophy, catching the attention of multiple franchises.

The 29-year-old's success is particularly inspiring considering his humble beginnings. He once had to borrow spikes to participate in trials. Speaking to TimesofIndia.com, Nabi expressed his desire to address the lack of cricket infrastructure in Baramulla, stating, "There’s absolutely nothing here." He aims to provide opportunities for aspiring cricketers, so they don't have to seek training elsewhere, as he did when he went to Bengaluru. In previous years, despite being called for trials by several IPL teams, including Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, Gujarat Titans, and Sunrisers Hyderabad, he wasn't selected. Delhi Capitals had shown interest the previous year, but Nabi was unable to attend the trial due to a state camp commitment.

Nabi's recent performances highlight his potential. He stood out in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and had an exceptional start to the Ranji Trophy season. Notably, he was the only fast bowler among the top wicket-takers during the first half of the season. His 29 wickets, which included three five-wicket hauls and a remarkable 7 for 24 against Rajasthan, played a key role in Jammu & Kashmir's qualification for the knockouts. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he has taken 15 wickets in seven matches with an economy rate of 7.41. He also contributed with the bat, scoring 32 runs off 21 balls against Madhya Pradesh and taking three crucial wickets.

In the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy, Nabi claimed 44 wickets in eight matches, the second-highest in the season, helping his team reach the quarterfinals.

Nabi's father, Gulam Nabi Dar, a teacher, initially wanted his son to focus on his studies and become a doctor. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. after seeing his son's dedication and success, he became his biggest supporter. Nabi recalls borrowing spikes for his first trial, highlighting the challenges he faced early in his career. From his first match earnings, he bought his own pair of spikes, which he still cherishes as a symbol of his journey.

Looking ahead, Nabi aspires to represent India on the international stage. He gained confidence during the Duleep Trophy, where he received encouragement from fellow fast bowlers Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. He also received praise from selector Ajay Ratra after taking five wickets in a Ranji Trophy match against Mumbai. Despite the attention, Nabi remains grounded, attributing his success to hard work and destiny. He emphasizes the importance of self-belief and focusing on the process rather than the results. He acknowledges the lack of facilities in his hometown and feels blessed to have come this far, starting from gully cricket.