Srinagar, August 3,2026- Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi has received his maiden call-up to the Indian Test team, replacing premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who has been ruled out of the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka due to a left knee injury. The announcement marks a historic milestone for the young seamer and a proud moment for Jammu and Kashmir cricket.
Bumrah, who was initially named in India’s squad, failed to recover fully from the knee injury he sustained during the ODI series against England. After undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, the star fast bowler did not receive the required fitness clearance, prompting the selectors to name Auqib Nabi as his replacement.
The 29-year-old right-arm pacer has been rewarded for his outstanding performances in domestic cricket. Nabi played a key role in Jammu and Kashmir’s impressive Ranji Trophy campaign over the past two seasons, consistently emerging as one of the leading wicket-takers. His performances also earned him a place in the India A setup earlier this year, strengthening his case for national selection.
The call-up is widely being hailed as a landmark achievement for cricket in Jammu and Kashmir, as Nabi becomes the first cricketer from the Union Territory to be named in India’s senior Test squad, reflecting the growing talent emerging from the region.
India will begin the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka on August 15 in Galle, with the second Test scheduled to start on August 23 in Colombo. The series will be led by Shubman Gill, while KL Rahul will serve as vice-captain.
Cricket experts and fans have welcomed Nabi’s inclusion, expressing confidence that the Jammu and Kashmir pacer can make the most of the opportunity and strengthen India’s pace attack in Bumrah’s absence. His selection is also being viewed as recognition of the depth of talent in Indian domestic cricket and the BCCI’s continued emphasis on rewarding consistent performers.
