Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi has become one of the most talked-about domestic cricketers as the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction approaches. The 29-year-old pacer is reportedly on the radar of at least three franchises, including the powerhouse Mumbai Indians, setting the stage for a potential bidding war next month.
Why IPL Teams Are Chasing Auqib Nabi
The interest in Auqib Nabi is not without merit. A right-arm medium-pace bowler, Nabi has shown significant improvement over the last five years, carving a niche for himself with his ability to swing the new ball both ways. His style has drawn comparisons to Indian swing master Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
Nabi's breakthrough performance came during the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season, where he took 44 wickets at a stunning average of 13.93, the best in the tournament. He further announced his arrival on the national stage in August during the Duleep Trophy, achieving the rare feat of taking four wickets in four consecutive balls for North Zone against East Zone.
The ongoing domestic season has only solidified his reputation. In just five matches, he has already scalped 29 wickets, including three five-wicket hauls. His remarkable spell of 7/24 against Rajasthan earned Jammu and Kashmir a bonus-point victory, showcasing his match-winning capabilities. While not an express 140kph quick, Nabi's control and potent swing make him a valuable asset for the T20 format.
Which Franchises Are in the Race?
According to reports, the competition for Nabi's signature is heating up. Mumbai Indians have already taken a serious step by conducting a trial with the bowler at their Ghansoli facility. However, with only ₹2.75 crore left in their purse, the lowest among all ten teams, they will face stiff competition.
He was also recently called for trials with the Delhi Capitals. Furthermore, having served as a net bowler for Sunrisers Hyderabad last season, he remains on their radar. Speculation also suggests that other top teams like Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings could enter the fray.
The Road to the IPL 2026 Auction
Nabi's domestic career began in 2018 with a List A debut for Jammu and Kashmir against Haryana, followed by T20 and first-class debuts in the subsequent years. His consistent performances, especially his role in Jammu and Kashmir's first-ever win over Delhi, have made him a sought-after talent.
The IPL 2026 mini-auction is scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi. With teams looking to fortify their squads with effective domestic bowlers, Auqib Nabi's ability to swing the ball is expected to be a hot commodity, potentially making him one of the standout stories of the auction.
