IPL 2026: Will Auqib Nabi Make His Debut Today in LSG vs DC Match?

The IPL 2026 season is heating up as Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), captained by Rishabh Pant, host Delhi Capitals (DC), led by Axar Patel, in Match 5 at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. Both sides missed the playoffs last season and eye a strong start. The pitch often aids early swing for pacers, with dew likely later, setting up an exciting battle between LSG’s batting firepower and DC’s bowling variety.

All attention, however, is on Jammu & Kashmir’s Auqib Nabi, the uncapped pacer who could make his IPL debut tonight.

Auqib Nabi’s Domestic Dominance

The 29-year-old right-arm medium-fast bowler from Baramulla was the star of the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy. He claimed a whopping 60 wickets at an average of around 12.65, powering J&K to their maiden title. With seven five-wicket hauls, including 5/54 in the final, Nabi earned Player of the Tournament. He also impressed in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy with 15 wickets, showcasing white-ball skills and handy lower-order batting.

His swing both ways, accuracy, and composure under pressure have drawn praise from experts.

Auqib Nabi ₹8.4 Crore IPL Deal

After consistent domestic showings, Nabi fetched a massive ₹8.4 crore at the IPL 2026 auction (base price ₹30 lakh) from Delhi Capitals following intense bidding. One of the costliest uncapped Indian players, he joins DC to bolster their pace attack alongside Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan, and others, especially with Mitchell Starc unavailable. Nabi has stayed focused, aiming to help DC win their first title rather than chasing early India selection.

Will Auqib Nabi make IPL Debut Today?

As Delhi Capitals lock horns today, Auqib Nabi is set to make his IPL debut. The Jammu and Kashmir pacer has been a sensation in domestic circuit and is likely to wear the Capitals colours for the first time at the Ekana Stadium. Fans from Kashmir and beyond will be watching closely as 'Baramulla Express' gets his first run-in in the IPL.