Full Name: Auqib Nabi Dar
Nickname: North Kashmir Express
Date of Birth: 04 November 1996
Age: 29 Years (as of 2026)
Birthplace: Baramulla, Jammu & Kashmir, India
Hometown: Sheeri, Baramulla
Profession: Professional Cricketer (All-rounder)
Years Active: 2018 – Present
Nationality: Indian
Religion: Islam
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Height: 5’10” (Approx.)
Weight: 74 kg (Approx.)
Eye Color: Black
Hair Color: Black
Body Measurements: Chest: 40, Waist: 32, Biceps: 14
Food Habit: Non-Vegetarian
Hobbies: Traveling, Gym Training, Music
Tattoos: None
Father’s Name: Gulam Nabi Dar (Government English Teacher)
Mother’s Name: Housewife
Siblings: Information not publicly detailed
Marital Status: Unmarried
Spouse: N/A
Children: None
Affairs / Relationships: Single / Private
Instagram ID: @auqib_nabi_dar
Instagram Followers: Growing rapidly (approx. 50K+)
Twitter (X): @AuqibNabi
Facebook: Auqib Nabi Dar Official
YouTube Channel: N/A
Other Platforms: Threads
Introduction
Auqib Nabi is the latest sensation in Indian domestic cricket, hailing from the scenic valleys of Baramulla, Jammu & Kashmir. A right-arm medium-fast bowler and a handy lower-order batter, he has become a symbol of perseverance. Known as the "North Kashmir Express," Auqib made headlines globally in late 2025 when he was signed by Delhi Capitals for a staggering ₹8.40 crore in the IPL auction. His rise is often compared to other domestic stars like Tilak Varma, showing that talent from any corner of India can reach the top.
Early Life & Childhood
Born on November 4, 1996, in Sheeri, Baramulla, Auqib’s journey didn't start with a silver spoon. His father, Gulam Nabi Dar, a government teacher, initially wanted his son to focus on studies and become a doctor. Auqib only played tennis-ball cricket for fun until the age of 17. It was only after a friend's insistence that he attended a Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) trial. Despite being rejected for the first two years, his "never-give-up" attitude kept him going.
Education Qualification
Auqib completed his schooling in Baramulla. He was a bright student in his youth, following his father's academic guidance. However, once he broke into the state age-group teams, his focus shifted toward professional cricket. Much like the disciplined approach seen in international stars like Alyssa Healy, Auqib balanced his learning with the technical demands of fast bowling.
Career Journey
Auqib made his List A debut in 2018 and his First-Class debut shortly after. He was mentored by former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan, who recognized his natural ability to swing the ball. After years of grinding in the domestic circuit, he transformed from a "workhorse" bowler into a genuine wicket-taker. He has represented Jammu & Kashmir across all formats and has become the backbone of their pace attack alongside Umran Malik.
Breakthrough Moment
His real breakthrough came during the 2024-25 and 2025-26 Ranji Trophy seasons. He became the first player from Jammu & Kashmir to top the wicket-taking charts in a single season. His performance in the 2025 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he took 15 wickets, acted as the catalyst for his massive IPL contract. He is now mentioned alongside other established names like Sanju Samson in discussions regarding national team call-ups.
Major Works & Projects
Auqib's most significant achievement to date is leading Jammu & Kashmir to their first-ever Ranji Trophy Final in 2026. He was instrumental in their victory over heavyweights like Mumbai and Bengal. His ability to dismiss top-tier batters like KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal has proven that he is ready for the international stage.
Recent Records & Statistics (2025-2026)
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Ranji Trophy 2025-26 | Leading wicket-taker with 60 wickets in 10 matches. |
| Best Bowling | 7/24 against Rajasthan (Ranji Trophy). |
| SMAT 2025 | 15 Wickets in 7 matches (Economy: 7.41). |
| IPL 2026 Auction | Bought by Delhi Capitals for ₹8.40 Crore. |
| 5-Wicket Hauls | 8 Five-wicket hauls in a single First-Class season (Record). |
Awards & Achievements
Auqib has won numerous "Player of the Match" awards in the Ranji Trophy, notably in the 2026 Quarter-final and Semi-final. He was recently lauded by BCCI President and legendary players for his record-breaking season. His journey is as inspiring as that of international veteran Sikandar Raza, proving that age (29) is just a number when it comes to peak performance.
Income, Fees & Net Worth
Before 2025, Auqib’s income was primarily from domestic match fees (approx. ₹40,000 to ₹60,000 per day for Ranji Trophy). However, his net worth saw a massive jump following the IPL 2026 auction.
- IPL Salary: ₹8.40 Crore (Delhi Capitals)
- Net Worth: Estimated at ₹10 Crore - ₹12 Crore (as of 2026)
- Endorsements: Local sports brands and upcoming national deals.
Lifestyle, Assets & Cars
Despite his sudden wealth, Auqib remains humble. He lives in his family home in Sheeri, Baramulla. He has expressed a desire to use his IPL earnings to build a cricket academy in his hometown to help young Kashmiri talents. He is known to enjoy a simple lifestyle, focusing heavily on his fitness and diet.
Controversies & Criticism
Auqib has stayed away from major controversies. The only "criticism" he faced earlier in his career was being labeled a "late bloomer" or a "medium pacer" who might not survive the IPL intensity. However, he has silenced critics with his recent pace increase and lethal in-swinging deliveries.
Lesser Known Facts
- He didn't own a pair of proper bowling spikes until he was selected for state trials.
- He idolizes pace legends Dale Steyn and Mohammed Shami.
- Auqib once considered quitting cricket to help his father with the family's financial needs before his senior debut.
- He is the third-fastest bowler in Ranji history to reach 60 wickets in a single season.
Public Image & Fan Following
In Jammu & Kashmir, Auqib is a local hero. Thousands gathered outside his home when he was picked in the IPL. He is seen as a disciplined, soft-spoken, and deeply religious individual who credits his success to his parents' prayers and hard work.
Upcoming Projects & Future Goals
His immediate focus is the IPL 2026 season with Delhi Capitals. Beyond the IPL, his primary goal is to earn the "Blue Jersey" for the Indian National Team. With a tour of England scheduled for July 2026, many experts believe Auqib Nabi is the leading candidate for a maiden call-up.
Disclaimer: This biography is written using publicly available information and media reports. Statistics and net worth details are based on current records as of March 2026 and are subject to change.