After Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka because of a knee injury, the BCCI announced Auqib Nabi as his replacement in the Indian Test squad. For many cricket fans, this was the first time they had heard his name, leading to one obvious question:
Who is Auqib Nabi?
The 29-year-old right-arm fast bowler has earned his maiden India Test call-up after several outstanding seasons in domestic cricket. His selection is the reward for years of hard work, consistent performances, and an inspiring journey from Jammu & Kashmir to the Indian national team.
Auqib Nabi Dar is an Indian fast bowler from Sheeri, Baramulla in Jammu & Kashmir.
He represents Jammu & Kashmir in domestic cricket and has impressed selectors with his ability to swing the new ball, maintain disciplined lines, and contribute useful runs lower down the order. He also joined Delhi Capitals in the IPL, further raising his profile before earning his India call-up.
Early Life and Cricket Journey
Auqib Nabi’s rise has not been easy.
Growing up in Jammu & Kashmir, he did not have the same facilities available to many young cricketers from larger cities. Reports have highlighted that he even borrowed cricket spikes during his early playing days before gradually making a name for himself through domestic cricket.
His determination and consistent performances eventually helped him become one of the country’s most promising red-ball bowlers.
Domestic Cricket Success
The biggest reason behind Nabi’s India selection is his remarkable domestic record. During the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy, he was among the tournament’s best bowlers.
Highlights
- Over 100 wickets across the last two Ranji Trophy seasons
- 60 wickets in the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy season
- Seven five-wicket hauls
- Played a key role in Jammu & Kashmir’s historic first Ranji Trophy title
These performances proved that he could consistently trouble quality batters over long spells.
India A Performances
Before receiving his senior India call-up, Nabi represented India A during the tour of Sri Lanka.
The selectors closely monitored his performances there, and his ability to bowl with discipline in overseas conditions strengthened his case for national selection.
Playing for India A often serves as the final step before entering the senior team, and Nabi successfully grabbed that opportunity.
Why Did India Select Auqib Nabi?
India’s selectors needed a replacement after Jasprit Bumrah failed to recover fully from his knee injury.
Instead of choosing another experienced international bowler, they rewarded the player who had consistently performed in domestic cricket.
Several factors worked in Nabi’s favour:
- Outstanding Ranji Trophy performances
- Ability to swing the new ball
- Excellent red-ball consistency
- Strong fitness levels
- Impressive India A performances
- Lower-order batting ability
Former India opener Wasim Jaffer also welcomed the decision and said Nabi had done enough to deserve a place in the national squad.
Bowling Style
Auqib Nabi is a right-arm medium-fast bowler known for accuracy rather than extreme pace.
His strengths include:
New Ball Swing
He can move the ball both ways during the opening overs.
Consistent Line and Length
Rather than relying only on speed, Nabi builds pressure through disciplined bowling.
Long Spells
His domestic record shows he can bowl extended spells without losing effectiveness.
Lower-Order Batting
Although primarily a bowler, he can contribute valuable runs when needed.
Can He Replace Jasprit Bumrah?
Replacing a world-class bowler like Jasprit Bumrah is almost impossible. Bumrah is currently one of the best fast bowlers in international cricket.
However, Nabi has not been selected to become “the next Bumrah.”
Instead, selectors want him to continue doing what made him successful in domestic cricket:
- Bowl patiently
- Maintain discipline
- Attack with the new ball
- Build pressure from one end
If he performs these basics well, he could enjoy a successful international career.
Opportunity Against Sri Lanka
The upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka provides the perfect opportunity. Sri Lankan conditions demand patience, accuracy, and intelligent bowling.
These are qualities Nabi has displayed consistently throughout his domestic career. If he gets a chance in the playing XI, strong performances could help him become a regular member of India’s Test squad.
What Makes This Story Special?
This isn’t just another India call-up. It is an inspiring story of perseverance.
From humble beginnings in Jammu & Kashmir to becoming the first cricketer from the region to earn a place in India’s senior men’s Test squad, Nabi’s journey shows how domestic cricket continues to produce talented players from every corner of the country.
What This Means for Team India
India’s fast-bowling future appears promising.
While Bumrah remains the leader of the attack, young bowlers like Auqib Nabi provide important depth for the future.
Competition for places will only make the Indian pace attack stronger as the team prepares for upcoming Test assignments and future World Test Championship campaigns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Auqib Nabi?
Auqib Nabi is a right-arm fast bowler from Jammu & Kashmir who earned his first India Test call-up after consistent performances in domestic cricket.
Why was Auqib Nabi selected?
He replaced the injured Jasprit Bumrah after taking more than 100 wickets across the last two Ranji Trophy seasons and impressing for India A.
Which team does Auqib Nabi play for?
He represents Jammu & Kashmir in domestic cricket and has also been part of Delhi Capitals in the IPL.
Will Auqib Nabi play against Sri Lanka?
He has been named in India’s Test squad. Whether he makes the playing XI will depend on team selection and match conditions.