Former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik has showered praise on Jammu & Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi Dar for his sensational performance in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Final against Karnataka cricket team at the Hubli Cricket Ground.
The right-arm pacer dismantled Karnataka’s top order, picking up three crucial wickets and continuing what has been a dream season for the 24-year-old.
‘Do It the Aaqib Nabi Way’: Karthik
Karthik took to social media platform X to highlight Auqib’s determination and work ethic throughout the season.
“Watching this Ranji Trophy campaign and following it closely, one thing I can say for certain, for all the young boys and girls out there playing this sport and wanting to represent the country, do it the AAQIB NABI way. I can’t think of any pacer/player in a long time doing what he’s done.”
The veteran cricketer emphasised that Auqib’s domination from start to finish in the domestic tournament could pave the way for national selection.
58 Wickets and Counting
Auqib has been one of the standout performers this season, claiming 58 wickets so far — just one short of becoming the highest wicket-taker of the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy campaign.
Karthik praised his fitness, stamina, and ability to bowl long spells across varying conditions.
“Fitness across the whole campaign, bowling those long spells across different soils and weather conditions… he’s been there for his team every time with the belief to strike.”
J&K Post Massive First-Innings Total
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir cricket team have piled up a commanding 584 runs in the Ranji Trophy final after winning the toss, putting Karnataka under immense pressure in what is a historic title clash for the side.
A Star in the Making?
Karthik concluded his praise by calling Auqib an “absolute champion” and expressed hope that the young pacer’s resilience, skill, and sheer willpower would earn him bigger opportunities in Indian cricket.
With performances like these, Auqib Nabi Dar is rapidly emerging as one of the most exciting fast-bowling prospects in Indian domestic cricket.