Ravichandran Ashwin sparked a massive shockwave by dropping one of the most mysterious and explosive hints of the season ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. Actually, Ravichandran Ashwin shared a cryptic social media post that instantly grabbed the attention of fans, franchises, and IPL insiders.
Everyone expected the build-up to the IPL 2026 auction to feature big global names like the Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, but the former Indian off-spinner pointed in a completely unexpected direction that nobody could have expected.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s secret hint reveals shock favorite for IPL 2026
Ashwin shared a collage featuring former Pakistan fast bowler and current national selector Aaqib Javed, along with Afghanistan’s experienced all-rounder Mohammad Nabi.
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There was no text, no explanation, and no hint, but the only clues were two emojis—pervy eyes and a handshake. This post was enough to spark a massive debate across social platforms. The message behind the post became clear within minutes.
What Ash is here trying to say is that Auqib Nabi would be a hot property at the #IPLAuction And he is not wrong. As many as five franchises have shown interest in him so far. Which team do you want to see him in? https://t.co/u4vbfSfcGG
— Mohsin Kamal (@64MohsinKamal) December 2, 2025
Ravichandran Ashwin was actually referring to Indian seamer Auqib Nabi, who has suddenly become one of the most sought-after players ahead of the IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi later this month.
Ravichandran Ashwin makes Auqib Nabi the center of IPL 2026 Auction drama
The buzz around the young pacer has grown so rapidly that at least five teams have already shown strong interest in picking him at the IPL 2026 auction.
Ravichandran Ashwin’s timing added more heat to the fire, especially because many fans believe his former franchise, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), might be preparing a surprise chase for Nabi.
CSK has a long history of identifying hidden gems, and Ravichandran Ashwin’s hint has only fueled the rumors that the yellow army could make a bold move at the auction since Nabi’s rise has been impressive.
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His domestic performances, consistent pace, and ability to deliver under pressure have made him one of the hottest names of the 2026 auction.
Who is Auqib Nabi?
Meanwhile, Auqib Nabi has become one of the most exciting names in Indian domestic cricket. After impressing everyone in the Ranji Trophy, he is now shining in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy as well.
The 29-year-old seamer from Baramulla once again proved his talent with a brilliant four-wicket spell against Bihar in Jammu and Kashmir’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 clash.
His 4/16 and two sharp catches helped Jammu and Kashmir to beat Bihar by 34 runs at Eden Gardens, earning him the Player of the Match award.
Nabi’s rise has been building for two seasons. In the Ranji Trophy, he has been the most consistent fast bowler, picking up 10 five-wicket hauls since the start of the 2024–25 season.
He also made headlines in the Duleep Trophy in August 2025 by taking four wickets in four balls for North Zone against East Zone. His 2024–25 Ranji season ended with 44 wickets at an excellent average of 13.93—the highest tally among fast bowlers.
In the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season, Nabi already has 29 wickets at 13.27. Despite his remarkable performances, Nabi has not received an India A call-up yet. But his performances on the domestic side are likely to get him to the IPL stage to show his talent to the world.
