Delhi Capitals coach breaks silence on Auqib Nabi's IPL debut, says 'we have asked him to...'

Ahead of the game against Gujarat Titans on Wednesday, Delhi Capitals bowling coach Munaf Patel has opened up on the reason behind the absence of Rs 8.40 crore pacer Auqib Nabi in the IPL 2026. The Jammu and Kashmir pacer is coming off a wonderful domestic season, making his absence from the playing XI a talking point among supporters and raising questions on the team's decision making.

Munaf Patel drops update on Auqib Nabi

In an interaction with the reporters, Munaf Patel revealed that the team has not found a suitable combination to include the pacer in the line-up so far in the competition.

Munaf went on to add that the Delhi-based side is very interested in giving Nabi an opportunity, highlighting his work ethic and discipline. The former India pacer also noted that, Nabi always pushes himself to bowl 10 to 12 overs during the practice session, whereas other bowlers only deliver five to six overs.

"He is a very good kid. As fast bowlers, we are a little crazy, a little eccentric, but he is a very good kid. He has an incredible work ethic and he has never played in the IPL or been part of this ecosystem. He is working very hard, he bowls all the time. Most people bowl five to six overs in the nets, but he bowls 10 to 12 overs because he loves the art form. We have to go and stop him from bowling. Even then, he requests, ‘Sir, please let me bowl six more balls.’ He is very eager to learn and desperate to develop his variations," said Munaf Patel.

However, Munaf finished by saying that Nabi would get an opportunity if Delhi opt against featuring an extra batter as the Impact player in the line-up.

"Auqib Nabi is ready to play. Sometimes it is difficult to handle this type of player, but he is such a good kid. We have asked him to stay prepared. The first chance we get, we will play him. If in a game we do not use a batter as Impact Player, we will bring in Auqib Nabi," concluded Munaf Patel.

Auqib Nabi's excellent domestic season

Auqib Nabi is in his first IPL stint after delivering a wonderful domestic season. Nabi played an instrumental role in Jammu and Kashmir's maiden Ranji Trophy triumph.

In 9 matches, Auqib Nabi picked up a staggering 60 wickets at an average of 12.65, consisting of eight-five wicket hauls. He is also known as "Baramulla Express" in the domestic circuit.