On August 3, Jammu and Kashmir’s star pacer Auqib Nabi received his first national call-up for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka.
He was included in the squad as a substitute for Jasprit Bumrah, who is sidelined due to a left knee injury sustained during the ODI series against England.
At 31 years old, Nabi’s selection marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first pacer from Jammu and Kashmir to join India’s Test team, and only the second cricketer from the region, following Parvez Rasool, who debuted in an ODI against Bangladesh in 2014. Should Nabi play against Sri Lanka, he will be the first player from Jammu and Kashmir to represent India in Test cricket.
Outstanding Domestic Performance
Nabi’s selection is a result of his exceptional performance in the domestic circuit, where he took 60 wickets in 10 matches during the 2025/26 Ranji Trophy season, playing a crucial role in leading Jammu and Kashmir to their first title in this prestigious domestic red-ball tournament.
Overcoming Early Challenges
Despite his recent success, Auqib faced numerous challenges early in his career, particularly due to his father’s strong focus on education over cricket. When he was selected for a fast-bowling camp under Australian legend Glenn McGrath at the MRF Pace Foundation, his father initially declined the opportunity, insisting that Auqib prioritize his 12th-grade board exams.
Zubair Dar, Auqib’s first club captain, recounted how he had to persuade Auqib’s father to allow him to attend the camp, emphasizing the importance of the opportunity to train under McGrath. Eventually, Auqib’s father agreed but insisted on arranging a flight for his son instead of allowing him to travel by train, which was a significant expense for a government schoolteacher.
A Humble Beginning
Auqib Nabi’s humility has been evident throughout his journey. Zubair Dar shared a touching story from Auqib’s early days, highlighting his modesty. When he was just 14, after a match where he performed well, he asked if he needed to pay to join the Baramulla Cricket Club, showcasing his innocence.
His consistent performances for the club earned him a spot in Jammu and Kashmir’s senior team, leading to his first-class debut. Over the years, Auqib has established himself as one of India’s most reliable domestic fast bowlers, amassing 162 wickets in his first-class career, including 16 five-wicket hauls and four ten-wicket hauls, with an impressive average of 18.63.
Previous Experience with Team India
Before his national call-up, Auqib served as a net bowler for the Indian team during a one-off Test against Afghanistan and made his India A debut in an unofficial Test series against Sri Lanka A, where he took six wickets across four innings.