New Delhi, Aug 3: Jammu & Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first cricketer from the Union Territory to be selected for India’s senior Test team. The 29-year-old pacer has been drafted into the Indian squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka after ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out due to a persistent left knee injury.
Nabi’s selection is the culmination of years of consistent performances in domestic cricket. Over the last two Ranji Trophy seasons, he has emerged as one of India’s most effective red-ball bowlers, claiming an impressive 104 wickets. During the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy campaign alone, he picked up 60 wickets, playing a decisive role in guiding Jammu & Kashmir to their maiden Ranji Trophy title. His ability to deliver breakthroughs with the new ball and maintain disciplined spells throughout the tournament earned widespread praise from former cricketers and selectors.
The right-arm seamer further strengthened his case for national selection during India A’s tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year. Nabi claimed six wickets in two first-class matches, demonstrating his ability to perform in overseas conditions against quality opposition. Those performances reinforced the selectors’ confidence in his potential at the international level.
Earlier this year, Nabi’s omission from India’s squad for the one-off Test against Afghanistan had sparked widespread debate among cricket experts and fans, many of whom felt that his exceptional domestic record deserved national recognition. His latest selection is now being viewed as a well-earned reward for sustained excellence in first-class cricket.
Beyond the personal milestone, Nabi’s inclusion marks a watershed moment for cricket in Jammu & Kashmir. For decades, the region has produced talented players who excelled in domestic competitions, but none had broken into India’s senior Test side. Nabi’s achievement is expected to inspire a new generation of young cricketers from the Union Territory to pursue the highest level of the game.
India will begin the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in Galle on August 15, with the second Test scheduled to start in Colombo on August 23. Shubman Gill will lead the Indian side, while KL Rahul has been named vice-captain.
