The harsh early December chill of north Kashmir was no match for the warmth of celebration in Sheeri village, Baramulla, on Tuesday. The reason for the uncontainable joy was local cricketing hero Auqib Nabi, whose life changed forever when he was picked up by the Delhi Capitals for a staggering Rs 8.4 crore at the IPL 2026 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi.
Village Erupts in Song and Dance
Residents from Sheeri and surrounding areas flocked to Nabi's two-storey family home as the news broke. The usually tranquil village was transformed into a vibrant carnival. Men danced energetically to traditional drumbeats, while women filled the cold air with melodious Kashmiri folk songs. The jubilation continued unabated, even as temperatures plunged, with Srinagar recording a low of minus 2.9 degrees Celsius just a day earlier.
Remarkably, the festivities even overcame a scheduled power cut in Sheeri. Undeterred by the darkness, celebrants used the lights from their mobile phones to illuminate the scene. Groups of enthusiastic youngsters marched along the main village road, beating drums late into the evening, their joy echoing through the valley.
A Family's Dream Realized
Inside the Nabi household, an emotional scene unfolded. The cricketer's mother, Mehmooda Begum, distributed sweets to a steady stream of well-wishers. His father, Ghulam Nabi, a government school teacher, was garlanded by proud residents. Overwhelmed by the moment, he broke down in tears of happiness.
Ghulam Nabi revealed that the family had initially hoped his son would choose a career in medicine. "But when I saw his dedication and hard work, I fully backed him in his cricketing pursuits," he said, adding with conviction, "I always believed he would make it." Auqib's younger brother, Imran Nabi, is currently pursuing a Masters in Mass Communication and Journalism from the University of Kashmir.
From Village Streets to IPL Stardom
Neighbours and villagers highlighted Nabi's humble beginnings and unwavering focus. "He is a down-to-earth cricketer who began his journey on the streets of our village," said neighbour Riyaz Ahmad Ganai. "I have always seen him calm and focused. His dream has always been to play for the Indian national team, and that day is not far away now."
Many pointed out that his success is a testament to sheer resolve, achieved despite a lack of infrastructure. "There is no proper cricket ground here. His success shows his resolve and determination," remarked one resident, who urged national selectors to visit Baramulla to scout more hidden talent, insisting, "There are many more."
Another local, Ghulam Nabi Wani, framed the achievement as a powerful message for Kashmiri youth. "It shows that hard work and focus pays off," he stated. The story of the 29-year-old pacer, fondly dubbed the 'North Kashmir Express', is no longer just a local folktale but a headline-making chapter in Indian cricket.
