*Udhampur’s Brijesh earns RR call-up
Ranjit Thakur/Suhail Bhat
JAMMU/SRINAGAR, Dec 16: Jammu and Kashmir cricket witnessed a historic moment at the Indian Premier League auction as two fast bowlers from the Union Territory earned contracts with IPL franchises, marking a major breakthrough for the region’s growing talent pool and inspiring young cricketers across Jammu and Kashmir.
Auqib Nabi Dar, a fast bowler from Sheeri village in North Kashmir’s Baramulla district, created history today after being picked by Delhi Capitals for a staggering Rs 8.40 crore at the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction.
Starting with a modest base price, the 29-year-old uncapped right-arm pacer triggered a fierce bidding war among several franchises before Delhi Capitals secured his services, making him one of the most expensive Indian domestic players at this year’s auction. The landmark signing marks a major milestone for Jammu and Kashmir cricket, which is steadily gaining recognition on the national stage.
The news sparked celebrations in Nabi’s hometown of Sheeri, where family members, neighbours, and friends gathered to distribute sweets, offer prayers, and rejoice in the historic achievement. Locals described it as a proud moment not only for Sheeri and Baramulla but for Kashmir as a whole.
Auqib’s father, Ghulam Nabi Dar, said, “I am extremely happy to see my son playing in the IPL. This is a dream come true for our family and the result of his sustained hard work.” A local cricketer added that the entire North Kashmir region was celebrating the achievement and prayed that Auqib would soon represent India in international cricket.
Highlighting his journey as an inspiration, Auqib’s uncle and sports enthusiast Sajadul Bashir appealed to youth to pursue sports and urged parents to support their children’s career choices.
Auqib boasts an impressive domestic record. He has taken 15 wickets in seven Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy matches at an economy rate of 7.41. In the Ranji Trophy, he claimed 29 wickets in nine innings, including three five-wicket hauls and a career-best 7 for 24 against Rajasthan, helping J&K qualify for the 2025-26 season. He topped India’s seamers in the 2024-25 Ranji season with 44 wickets at an average of 13.93. He also impressed in the Duleep Trophy, taking four wickets in four balls for the North Zone.
Despite his consistent performances, his absence from India A squads surprised many experts, but his IPL selection has renewed hope among young cricketers in the Valley.
Meanwhile, Brijesh Sharma, a 27-year-old fast bowler from Dandial (near the CEO Office), Udhampur, was picked by Rajasthan Royals for Rs 30 lakh at the TATA IPL Auction in Abu Dhabi.
Brijesh honed his skills under the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), representing the region in U-19 and U-25 national tournaments before moving outside the UT in search of better opportunities. He is currently playing in the Bengal Pro T20 League.
Expressing his joy, Brijesh told Excelsior, “I am feeling out of the world. I am thankful to my family, coaches, and friends who supported and motivated me in every situation. Because of them, I am here today.”
He began his professional career in J&K, later played for Unique Sports Club in Delhi and subsequently moved to Bengal, where he played domestic cricket under the guidance of legendary Sourav Ganguly.
Brijesh completed his education up to Class 12 in Udhampur and left college to focus on cricket. His father, Kapoor Chand Sharma, works as a labourer, while his mother, a former Class-IV school employee, is now a homemaker. He has an elder brother working in the private sector and a younger sister who is a student. Despite his humble background, Brijesh said his long-term aim is to develop cricket infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir to create better opportunities for aspiring players.
Brijesh has previously played alongside IPL stars Umran Malik and Abdul Samad and has participated in tournaments such as the Bijbehara Premier League. His IPL selection, along with Auqib Nabi’s historic buy, marks a proud and inspiring chapter for Jammu and Kashmir cricket.
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