Srinagar, Aug 3: Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi is set to receive his maiden call-up to the senior Indian men’s cricket team after being named as Jasprit Bumrah’s replacement for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. The right-arm pacer, who has consistently impressed in domestic cricket, is expected to become only the third cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to earn a place in the national men’s squad after Parvez Rasool and Umran Malik, while also becoming the first player from the Union Territory to break into India’s Test setup. Nabi’s inclusion comes after Bumrah was ruled out due to a persistent knee injury that has not healed despite extensive rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. With India’s premier fast bowler unavailable, the selectors have rewarded Nabi’s remarkable domestic performances over the past two seasons. The J&K speedster has established himself as one of the country’s most consistent red-ball bowlers, claiming over 100 wickets across the last two Ranji Trophy campaigns and playing a crucial role in Jammu and Kashmir’s impressive performances with both ball and bat. His ability to generate pace, maintain disciplined lines and deliver match-winning spells had already placed him on the national selectors’ radar, and the vacancy created by Bumrah’s injury has paved the way for his long-awaited opportunity at the highest level. The two-Test series against Sri Lanka is scheduled to begin on August 15, with India expected to field a young but balanced squad led by captain Shubman Gill. Nabi’s selection is being celebrated as a landmark moment for Jammu and Kashmir cricket, reflecting the region’s growing contribution to Indian cricket and inspiring a new generation of aspiring cricketers. If he makes his debut during the series, Auqib Nabi will script history as the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to represent India in Test cricket, adding another proud chapter to the Union Territory’s sporting journey.
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