J&K Seamer Auqib Nabi replaces Jasprit Bumrah in India Test squad for Sri Lanka series

 Becomes First From Union Territory To Earn Place In Indian Test Squad; JKCA Hails Landmark Selection

JAMMU, Aug 3: Jammu & Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi has earned a historic call-up to India’s Test squad for the two-match series against Sri Lanka, replacing injured Jasprit Bumrah and becoming the first cricketer from Jammu & Kashmir to secure a place in the Indian red-ball squad.

Bumrah, who sustained an impact injury during the ODI series against England, has not recovered as expected despite undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

Auqib’s selection rewards his sustained excellence in domestic cricket and impressive performances at the India A level. The 29-year-old finished the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season as the leading wicket-taker, claiming 60 wickets in 10 matches, including seven five-wicket hauls. Across the last two Ranji seasons, he has taken 104 wickets.

His decisive spells in the quarterfinal against Madhya Pradesh, semifinal against Bengal and title clash against Karnataka played a crucial role in Jammu & Kashmir’s historic Ranji Trophy triumph.

The selectors also took note of his performance for India A against Sri Lanka A, where he claimed six wickets in the two-match unofficial Test series, including a four-wicket haul in one innings.

Auqib’s ability to maintain a consistent length, extract movement from the surface and bowl long spells is expected to strengthen India’s pace options in Sri Lankan conditions.

Expressing delight over his selection, Auqib described it as a “dream come true” and said he would leave no stone unturned to justify the faith reposed in him. He also credited the Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) for his success.

The JKCA congratulated Auqib on the landmark achievement, terming it a proud moment for cricket in the Union Territory.

“This is not just Auqib’s achievement; it is Jammu & Kashmir’s achievement,” said JKCA Officiating President Desh Ratan Dubey, adding that his success reflected improvements in infrastructure, coaching and player-development pathways.

JKCA Secretary Vivek Khajuria said Auqib had set a powerful example for young cricketers across the Union Territory and wished him success on the international stage.

The Association also thanked the BCCI and national selectors for recognising merit and rewarding consistent domestic performances.