IND vs NZ 2nd ODI: Persistent rainfall delayed the start of the second ODI between India and New Zealand in Wellington. Once play finally got underway, Indian pacer Auqib Nabi Dar wasted no time in stamping his authority on the contest. The Jammu and Kashmir speedster, widely known as the ‘Baramulla Express’, produced a sensational opening spell by claiming his maiden ODI wicket in the very first over. The performance was all the more remarkable after he went wicketless in the preceding match.
Nabi handed India an early breakthrough by dismissing New Zealand opener Tim Seifert for a duck, reducing the hosts to 0/1. The right-armer pitched the ball up outside off, luring Seifert into an early drive. The batter mistimed the shot, lofting the ball into the air where Anshul Kamboj completed a superb diving catch at mid-on.
The young paceman continued his impressive spell shortly afterwards by removing fellow opener Will Young. Nabi delivered an excellent seam-up ball that forced Young to play outside the off-stump. Wicketkeeper KL Rahul showed remarkable reflexes, diving to his right to complete a brilliant catch despite initially moving in the opposite direction.
Young appeared unsettled during his brief time at the crease and could not find his rhythm against India’s disciplined bowling attack. Nabi’s double strike gave India a dream start and piled immediate pressure on New Zealand in the rain-affected encounter.
Auqib Nabi Dar’s Rise in International Cricket
Auqib Nabi has emerged as one of India’s most promising fast-bowling prospects from Jammu and Kashmir, earning recognition through consistent domestic performances. He received his maiden senior India cap on September 30, 2026, making his ODI debut against the West Indies in Guwahati.
Earlier in August 2026, he created history by becoming the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to earn a place in India’s Test squad, included as a replacement for Jasprit Bumrah during India’s tour of Sri Lanka. His consistent displays subsequently secured him a spot in the Indian squad for the New Zealand ODI series.
Nabi established himself as a leading figure in Jammu and Kashmir cricket through remarkable domestic performances. His finest achievement came during the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, when he claimed 60 wickets to finish as the competition’s leading wicket-taker. His outstanding contribution played a crucial role in helping Jammu and Kashmir secure their maiden Ranji Trophy title, and his exceptional campaign earned him the prestigious Player of the Tournament award.
His performances attracted significant attention at the Indian Premier League auction, where Delhi Capitals secured his services for ₹8.40 crore ahead of the 2026 season. Having already collected 104 first-class wickets across two seasons, the right-arm pacer has demonstrated a consistent ability to deliver. Nabi has also gained valuable overseas experience through his association with English county side Surrey, further strengthening his credentials as an emerging international fast-bowling prospect.