Auqib Nabi Makes History as First Cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir in India Test Squad
Auqib Nabi, an all-rounder from Jammu and Kashmir, has been named in India's Test squad, becoming the region's first Test cricketer. His selection marks a significant moment for a region with limited sporting opportunities.
Key takeaways
- Auqib Nabi has become the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to be included in the India Test squad.
- He was selected as a replacement for Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka.
- Nabi's selection highlights his significant domestic performance, including leading the Ranji Trophy in wickets and contributing to Jammu and Kashmir's first title win.
- His journey underscores the challenges and triumphs of aspiring athletes from regions with limited sporting infrastructure.
What Happened
Auqib Nabi, a 29-year-old all-rounder from Jammu and Kashmir, has been called up to the Indian Test squad. He replaces Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka, which commences on August 15. Nabi was at the airport preparing to travel to a camp in Bengaluru when he received the news of his selection.
His inclusion is notable as he is the first cricketer from the region of Jammu and Kashmir to earn a Test call-up. This achievement is seen as a landmark for a region where conflict, harsh winters, and limited infrastructure have historically constrained sporting development.
Background
Nabi grew up in a small village in the Baramulla district, playing cricket on local grounds with minimal facilities. His father, a schoolteacher, initially prioritized academics, but Nabi's passion for cricket eventually gained his father's support.
Despite the lack of professional cricket infrastructure in his youth, Nabi was persistent, traveling approximately 70km to Srinagar for practice. He also consistently followed a rigorous training regimen, waking early for the gym and dedicating the rest of the day to practice for a decade.
His professional career gained momentum in 2020 when he debuted in India's top domestic tournament, the Ranji Trophy, for Jammu and Kashmir. He has since become a prominent figure in domestic cricket, notably playing a key role in Jammu and Kashmir's historic maiden Ranji Trophy title triumph in the 2025-26 season. He finished that season as the tournament's leading wicket-taker, claiming 60 wickets.
Key Facts
- Auqib Nabi, 29, is the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to be selected for the India Test squad.
- He was called up as a replacement for Jasprit Bumrah for the Test series against Sri Lanka, starting August 15.
- Nabi was at an airport in Bengaluru when he received the unexpected news of his selection.
- He was the leading wicket-taker in the Ranji Trophy with 60 wickets in the 2025-26 season, helping Jammu and Kashmir win their first title.
- Nabi's father, Ghulam Nabi Dar, initially discouraged his cricket pursuits, favoring academics, but later supported his son's passion.
- He has previously played for Delhi Capitals in the IPL and represented India A.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
Related stories
Outer Delhi Warriors Secure Five-Wicket Victory Over West Delhi Lions
Ashwin Advises Clarity for Sarfaraz Khan Amidst Selection Debate
Sri Lanka Captain Warns India of Spin Threat Ahead of Galle Test
