In a historic performance during the ongoing Duleep Trophy, Jammu & Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi made headlines with a sensational five-wicket haul, including a hat-trick, playing for North Zone against East Zone. The 28-year-old pacer from Baramulla finished with 5/28, turning the game on its head with a fiery spell that showcased his growing stature in Indian domestic cricket.
Nabi Claims Hat-Trick and Fifer to Give North Zone a Commanding Lead
Nabi’s game-changing moment came in the 53rd over of the East Zone innings, where he took a stunning hat-trick in the final three balls. The momentum didn’t stop there—he came back in the next over and picked a wicket on the very first delivery, making it four wickets in four balls.
This brilliant effort helped North Zone secure a massive 175-run first-innings lead, putting East Zone on the back foot. Fellow India pacer Arshdeep Singh, who bowled alongside Nabi and picked 1/51, praised the J&K pacer’s work ethic and sharp form in the nets.
“When he was bowling in the nets, I think he took seven wickets in the first ten balls,” Arshdeep told Sportstar. “We knew something special was brewing.”
Rising Star from J&K: Nabi’s Stellar Ranji Trophy Season
This performance wasn’t out of the blue. Nabi had already shown signs of his potential in the 2024 Ranji Trophy season, where he emerged as the highest wicket-taker among pacers, with 44 wickets in just 15 innings at an incredible average of 13.9. His standout moment came when he bagged a six-wicket haul in J&K’s historic win over Mumbai.
Speaking after his performance, Nabi reflected on the journey and how he’s stayed focused despite limited resources:
“A lot has changed in the last year. This is my debut for North Zone after a strong Ranji season, and I’m glad to be rewarded,” said Nabi. “Playing for India has always been the dream. Limited resources can’t be an excuse. You have to keep improving.”
What’s Next for Auqib Nabi?
Nabi’s performance against East Zone marked his ninth five-wicket haul in First-Class cricket. He now has 95 wickets in just 48 innings, averaging 21.3—a phenomenal record for any domestic pacer. With consistency and determination on his side, an India A call-up could be just around the corner.
As J&K continues to produce emerging cricket talent, Auqib Nabi’s rise is a testament to what hard work and self-belief can achieve—even without elite infrastructure. His story is an inspiration for aspiring cricketers across the country, especially from regions often underrepresented on the national stage.
