‘Missing IPL Spot Despite Stellar Performance is Disappointing’: Jammu & Kashmir ace Auqib Nabi | Exclusive

Add as a preferred source on Google

Jammu and Kashmir's rising fast-bowling star, Auqib Nabi, has been making waves in domestic cricket with his stellar performances.

The 28-year-old pacer has been instrumental in Jammu and Kashmir's stellar run in the Ranji Trophy this season. He is currently the highest wicket-taking pacer in the Ranji Trophy with 32 scalps in five matches. In the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Auqib already has 8 wickets to his name as well.

However, despite his consistent showing, the talented pacer remains disappointed after being overlooked at the IPL auction. In a candid interview with MyKhel, Nabi spoke about his cricketing journey, challenges as a player from Jammu and Kashmir, and his hopes for the future.

IPL Auction Snub: "It's Disheartening"

"Honestly, it feels disappointing," the bowler admitted when asked about not being picked for the IPL.

"I've been performing consistently in the Ranji Trophy and other formats. This season, I've been among the leading wicket-takers as a fast bowler in India. Five wickets in five matches is not easy, especially for a pacer. It's disheartening when such performances go unnoticed. The name was not even mentioned."

Nabi's disappointment in the IPL auction was contrasted by his optimism about his domestic performances.

"We've played five matches so far and haven't lost a single one," Nabi shares with pride. "We're currently second in our group, and that's a huge achievement for a team like ours. The Ranji Trophy is the real test of a cricketer, and the team has collectively stepped up. It's been a complete team effort, with five different players earning 'Man of the Match' awards in five matches."

The Journey: Growing Up in J&K's Cricket Landscape

Auqib Nabi's journey as a cricketer has been anything but ordinary. Coming from a region with limited cricketing infrastructure, he has had to fight hard to make a name for himself.

"There weren't many facilities when I started. We didn't have proper grounds, and cricket wasn't a career option for most. But over time, things have improved. Watching IPL and international cricket has inspired a lot of kids from Jammu and Kashmir to dream big."

He also credited the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association for recent changes, which has been a boon for the cricketers.

"Facilities have gotten better, especially in the last two years. We have more matches, better camps, and support for players now. We are a lot more equipped these days. Our cricketing director, Mithun Manhas, has been instrumental in ensuring we have the resources we need to perform."

Fitness and Skill: The Key to Longevity

As a fast bowler, Nabi emphasizes the importance of balancing fitness and skill. "For a fast bowler, both fitness and skill go hand in hand," he said. "You might have the skill to swing the ball or bowl at pace, but without fitness, you can't deliver consistently. I bowled 35 overs in my first match this season, and that requires a high level of endurance."

Nabi also praises the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for its player load-management initiatives.

"The BCCI tracks players' workloads now, checking for any niggles or injuries. It's a great initiative that helps players stay fit and perform consistently."

Support System and Motivation

The J&K pacer credits his family for standing by him, despite the challenges. It was not easy for him to convince his parents as they wanted him to focus on studying, but Nabi's resilience and performances have won his family, who are his biggest support system now.

"In the beginning, my parents were hesitant about me pursuing cricket, especially since there's no strong cricketing culture or career opportunities back home. Even now, cricketers have no jobs. But once I started representing the state, they became my biggest supporters. I'm thankful for their belief in me."

When asked about his idols, Nabi named two legendary fast bowlers. "Internationally, Dale Steyn has always been my idol. From India, I admire Zaheer Khan and, of course, Jasprit Bumrah. They are in a league of their own.

Looking Ahead: "The Goal is to Keep Performing"

Despite the disappointment of missing out on the IPL, Auqib Nabi remains focused on his cricketing journey.

"I can't let the snub define my career. The only thing I can control is my performance. Whether it's Ranji, Vijay Hazare, or Syed Mushtaq Ali, I'll keep giving my best. The rest will fall into place with time. Cricket is full of ups and downs. You just have to keep going, believe in yourself, and trust the process. Results will follow."

Auqib Nabi's story is a testament to perseverance and resilience. With his talent and determination, the Jammu and Kashmir pacer continues to aspire and the aim of reaching the ultimate target may find its bulls eye soon.