Baramulla, Dec 16: Celebrations broke out across Baramulla town and its adjoining villages on Tuesday evening after local fast bowler Auqib Nabi from the area was picked up by Delhi Capitals for a whopping Rs 8.40 crore at the IPL auction, marking a historic moment for Kashmir cricket and triggering jubilant scenes among residents, especially in his native Sheeri village.
Baramulla town reverberated with the sound of firecrackers as jubilant residents, especially youth, poured onto the streets to celebrate the young cricketer’s success.
The festive mood was particularly visible in Sheeri village, Auqib Nabi’s native place, where people thronged his residence to congratulate his parents.
Auqib’s mother was seen warmly welcoming visitors and distributing almonds and sweets, marking a proud moment for the family and the entire locality.
“Auqib has been an inspiration for the youth,” said Fayaz Ahmad of Sheeri. “His commitment and hard work have finally paid off. We are proud of him.”
Spontaneous celebrations were witnessed across various other parts of the Baramulla town.
Small groups of youth burst firecrackers and raised slogans at Karyapa Park, Janbazpora and Sheeri, hailing Auqib’s achievement.
“This is a huge moment for the people of Kashmir, especially the youth of Baramulla. His achievement has brought cheer to our faces and proved that hard work pays off,” said a young man while bursting firecrackers near Karyappa Park in Baramulla.
Ayaz Ahmad, a young cricketer from Baramulla town, while expressing joy over Auqib’s selection, said that despite limited resources and facilities, Auqib has proven that talent and hard work are the core ingredients of success.
“Imagine a young cricketer from a village like Sheeri creating history by becoming the first cricketer from the Valley to be bought for over Rs 8 crore. It is not just about the money, but the platform, which is crucial for his cricketing career,” Ahmad said.
Auqib Nabi’s IPL breakthrough is being widely seen as a landmark moment for Kashmiri youth, inspiring aspiring sportspersons across the Kashmir.
