Jammu and Kashmir speedster Auqib Nabi is set to make his IPL 2026 debut with Delhi Capitals after a strong domestic season.
After his blockbuster Rs 8.4 crore deal with the Delhi Capitals, Auqib has been tipped to make a strong mark this IPL season. The young fast bowler recently opened up about his humble beginnings and struggles during a conversation on JioStar's 'TATA IPL: Dream On'.
Nabi started playing cricket with tennis balls when he was in 5th or 6th grade. There was no proper practice facility in Baramulla, so he played on roads or small school grounds. He drew inspiration from Dale Steyn's high pace and swing.
"I started playing cricket with tennis balls when I was in 5th or 6th grade. There was no specific place in Baramulla for practice.
So we used to play on the road or on a small school ground. I used to watch Dale Steyn a lot when I was young. The way he swung the ball at such high pace inspired me to become a fast bowler and hopefully, play for India one day," Auqib Nabi said to JioStar.
His father wanted him to become a doctor and often scolded him for focusing too much on cricket. Nabi also found motivation from Parvez Rasool, who earned an India call-up after performing well in the IPL.
"Parvez Rasool made his debut for India by performing well for RCB in the IPL. I was very motivated to play for India after seeing him do that. Parvez bhai is one of us, hailing from a local village in Jammu and Kashmir," he added.
Nabi recalled borrowing spiked shoes from a senior during his Under-19 trials because he didn't have his own. Later, Irfan Pathan's guidance as mentor helped him break into the senior Jammu and Kashmir team. This year, Nabi grabbed attention with a rare four-wicket haul in four consecutive balls in the Duleep Trophy.
"When Irfan bhai joined as mentor of Jammu and Kashmir, I was in the Under-23 team and my performances there got his attention. He helped me make my debut for the Jammu and Kashmir senior team. He used to guide me a lot by giving me tips and was very helpful. He is a legend of Team India and I had a great experience with Irfan bhai," he concluded.
