Auqib Nabi made his debut for India’s senior Test team on August 3, 2026, taking Jasprit Bumrah’s place. Auqib Nabi Jammu & Kashmiri seamer was chosen by the Men’s Selection Committee after Bumrah was unable to play in the Test series against Sri Lanka due to a left knee injury sustained during the ODI series against England.
Auqib Nabi exceptional domestic record bolsters his eligibility for a call-up. Over the previous two Ranji Trophy seasons, he claimed 104 wickets, including 60 in 2025–2026. Before getting his senior call-up, Nabi took six wickets in two first-class matches during India A’s recent tour to Sri Lanka.
When making selection decisions, the former India batsman Jaffer emphasised how important it is to consider consistent home record. He underlined that Nabi’s performances across multiple Ranji Trophy seasons demonstrated the calibre of players needed to make the national team.
“It’s a significant and joyous occasion. And you’re completely correct that he (Auqib Nabi) probably shouldn’t have taken over as a replacement in the first place given how brilliantly he performed. However, it’s better late than never. Jaffer posted on his YouTube channel, “I’m very happy for him because he deserves to be in the initial squad.”
Reasons for including Auqib Nabi in the initial team
Jaffer emphasised the importance of immediately recognising reliable domestic performers. “When a player performs this well, he should be a first-choice selection,” he said, adding that Nabi’s Ranji Trophy record and his journey through India A should have been considered when the squad was initially named. Nevertheless, based on his performance, congrats to him for being the first J&K player to get to the Test team. “I hope he demonstrates why he has performed so well if given the chance,” Jaffer continued.
Nabi’s bravery was a major factor in Jammu and Kashmir’s maiden Ranji Trophy victory. If Nabi makes his Test cricket debut in Sri Lanka, he will be the first player from Jammu & Kashmir to represent India. His nomination marks a significant turning point for the state’s cricket development and recognises the talent coming from domestic cricket organisations.
