The IPL 2026 auction witnessed one of its biggest shocks when Delhi Capitals went all-in for Aaqib Dar, splashing a massive ₹8.40 crore on the uncapped pacer from Jammu & Kashmir — a staggering 2700% jump over his base price.
So, who exactly is Aaqib Dar, and why did franchises lose their minds? Let’s break it down 🔍
💥 Auction Frenzy: How DC Won the Battle
What started as a low-key bid quickly turned into a full-blown bidding war.
Teams involved:
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🔴 Rajasthan Royals
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🔵 Royal Challengers Bengaluru
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🟠 Sunrisers Hyderabad
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🔵 Delhi Capitals (winners)
Delhi Capitals eventually sealed the deal at ₹8.40 crore, making Dar the fifth most expensive uncapped player in IPL history.
📊 Domestic Numbers That Demand Respect
Aaqib Dar isn’t just auction hype — his red-ball record is elite:
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🏏 First-class wickets: 125
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🎯 Bowling average: 19.98
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🧠 Known for accuracy, movement, and relentless pressure
An average under 20 in first-class cricket puts him in rare company among Indian fast bowlers.
⚡ What Makes Aaqib Dar Special?
Scouts rate Dar highly because of:
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✅ Consistent seam movement
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✅ Discipline in line & length
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✅ Ability to bowl long, attacking spells
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✅ Mental toughness in tough conditions
He’s not just a speed merchant — he’s a thinking fast bowler, something IPL teams crave for balance.
🧠 Why Delhi Capitals Paid So Much
Delhi Capitals’ strategy is clear:
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🔮 Long-term Indian pace investment
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🔁 Red-ball skills transferable to T20
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🏟️ Ideal for powerplay & middle overs
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🇮🇳 Future India prospect
In an era where quality Indian fast bowlers are limited, DC chose to secure the asset first, worry about price later.
📈 From Jammu & Kashmir to IPL Stardom
Dar’s rise is also a big moment for Jammu & Kashmir cricket, showing that talent from non-traditional centers can command top IPL money with performances alone.
🔥 Final Word
Aaqib Dar’s ₹8.40 crore price tag isn’t just about numbers — it’s about belief. If he adapts quickly to T20 cricket, Delhi Capitals may look like geniuses in a few seasons.
