Auqib Nabi’s IPL Breakthrough Looms as Gujarat Titans Consider Him Siraj’s Backup

Jammu and Kashmir right-arm pacer Auqib Nabi is poised to attract significant bids in the IPL 2026 mini-auction on December 16, 2025, with expectations that the 29-year-old could become a crorepati due to his outstanding domestic performances. Having set a base price of INR 30 lakh, Nabi's recent form—including 15 wickets at an economy of 7.41 in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and 29 wickets with three five-wicket hauls in the ongoing Ranji Trophy—has positioned him as an emerging talent likely to draw interest from multiple franchises.

Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara highlighted Nabi's potential during pre-auction analysis, praising his consistency across formats. Nabi's standout spells, such as 4/16 against Bihar in T20s and 7/24 against Rajasthan in first-class cricket, follow an impressive previous Ranji season where he claimed 44 wickets at an average of 13.93. These numbers underscore his ability to deliver in pressure situations and make him a valuable uncapped prospect.

Pujara suggested that Gujarat Titans could consider Nabi as a backup seamer to complement their strong pace attack featuring Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Kagiso Rabada. Speaking exclusively to the Hindustan Times, Pujara noted that while Nabi is talented, the franchise's existing depth might limit him to a reserve role under coach Ashish Nehra.

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Additionally, Pujara recommended the Gujarat Titans target South African batter David Miller, who was released by the Lucknow Super Giants and enters the auction at a base price of INR 2 crore. Miller's prior success with the Titans—including contributions to their 2022 title win and over 700 runs in two seasons—makes him familiar with the team's dynamics and a potential backup for Glenn Phillips.

As the mini-auction unfolds with 77 slots available across ten teams, Nabi represents the kind of domestic talent that franchises increasingly value for depth and cost-effectiveness. His potential acquisition could mark a significant milestone for Jammu and Kashmir cricket on the IPL stage.

With intense competition expected for seamers and finishers, the auction outcomes for players like Nabi and Miller will reflect strategic squad-building priorities ahead of the 2026 season.

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