• BCCI rewards pace sensation after 104 wickets in two seasons and stellar India A outing
• CM Omar calls selection a proud moment for Jammu & Kashmir
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi on Monday scripted history after earning his maiden call-up to the Indian Test team for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka, becoming one of the few cricketers from the Union Territory to reach the highest level of red-ball cricket.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) named the 24-year-old speedster as the replacement for injured pace spearhead JaspritBumrah, who has been ruled out of the series due to an incomplete recovery from a left knee injury.
The selection marks a watershed moment for cricket in Jammu and Kashmir, with Nabi’s inclusion coming on the back of two outstanding domestic seasons that established him as one of India’s most promising fast bowlers.
The BCCI Men’s Selection Committee rewarded Nabi’s consistent performances in domestic cricket, where he claimed 104 wickets across the last two Ranji Trophy seasons, including 60 wickets in the 2025-26 season. His pace and accuracy played a decisive role in helping Jammu and Kashmir clinch its maiden Ranji Trophy title, a historic achievement for the Union Territory.
Nabi further strengthened his case during the recent India A tour of Sri Lanka, where he picked up six wickets in two first-class matches, impressing selectors with his ability to generate pace and movement in overseas conditions.
The updated Indian squad for the Test series includes Shubman Gill (captain), KL Rahul (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Sai Sudharsan, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, DevduttPadikkal, Saransh Jain and Auqib Nabi.
Nabi’s rise has been widely hailed as a breakthrough for cricket in Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting the growing depth of talent emerging from the region. His selection is expected to inspire a new generation of cricketers aspiring to represent the country at the highest level.
Soon after the announcement, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah congratulated the young pacer, describing the selection as a proud moment for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
In a congratulatory message, the Chief Minister said Nabi’s achievement was a testament to his dedication, perseverance and hard work. He termed the selection an inspiration for young sportspersons across the Union Territory and wished the fast bowler success on the international stage.
The call-up also underlines the increasing recognition of Jammu and Kashmir’s cricketing talent in the national arena, with Nabi becoming the latest product of the region’s domestic cricket structure to earn national honours.
With Bumrah unavailable, all eyes will now be on the young speedster as he prepares to join the Indian dressing room for what could be the biggest opportunity of his career. A Test debut in Sri Lanka would not only mark a personal milestone for Nabi but also add a significant chapter to Jammu and Kashmir’s sporting history.
The announcement sparked celebrations in Auqib Nabi’s hometown, with residents describing his selection as a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir and a source of inspiration for aspiring cricketers across the region.
Mohammad Yousuf, a local resident, said Nabi’s achievement has brought immense pride to the entire community.
“This is not just Auqib’s success but the success of Jammu and Kashmir cricket. Young players now have proof that with hard work and dedication, reaching the Indian Test team is possible,” he said.
Aamir Lone, another local, said Nabi’s journey from domestic cricket to the national team reflects years of perseverance.
“We have seen him work tirelessly on the field. His selection has filled every cricket lover in Kashmir with joy. We hope he gets the opportunity to make his Test debut and performs well for the country,” he said.
Lone said that Auqib has become a role model for aspiring cricketers in Jammu and Kashmir. His success will encourage many talented boys from the Valley to dream bigger and work harder,” he added.
