Fast bowler Auqib Nabi has been named in India’s Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka, replacing the injured Jasprit Bumrah. Bumrah was ruled out after failing to recover from a left knee injury sustained during the ODI series against England. The Auqib Nabi India Test squad selection marks a historic moment for Indian cricket and Jammu & Kashmir.
With his selection, Auqib Nabi becomes the first cricketer from the Kashmir Valley to earn a place in India’s Test squad. He is also the third player from Jammu & Kashmir to receive a senior national team call-up after Parvez Rasool and Umran Malik, both of whom represented India in limited-overs cricket.
The 29-year-old right-arm fast bowler hails from a remote village in Baramulla, Kashmir, and has been rewarded for his outstanding domestic performances. Over the last two Ranji Trophy seasons, he claimed 104 wickets, including 60 wickets during the 2025–26 season, helping Jammu & Kashmir secure their maiden Ranji Trophy title. He performed impressively during the recent India tour of Sri Lanka, taking six wickets in two first-class matches.
The Auqib Nabi India Test squad selection has been widely welcomed. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha described it as a proud moment for Jammu & Kashmir, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called it an inspiration for young sports persons across the region. Nabi’s inclusion marks another milestone for cricket in Jammu & Kashmir, highlighting the growing talent emerging from the region.
