Auqib Nabi Joins India Squad for First 3 ODIs
Auqib Nabi is now in India's ODI squad for the first three matches against New Zealand, a change from his initial inclusion for later games.
The Cliff News | 31 October 2026
In a notable development for the Indian cricket team, the Men's Selection Committee has announced the inclusion of right-arm pacer Auqib Nabi in the squad for the first three One Day Internationals (ODIs) against New Zealand. This strategic move sees Nabi, who was initially slated to join the team for the latter half of the series, now be a part of the Indian contingent from the commencement of the ODI campaign.
The decision reflects a potential shift in strategy or an assessment of the team's bowling attack needs for the initial phase of the series. Nabi's presence from the outset suggests the selectors are keen to integrate his skills into the core of the team's plans against the formidable New Zealand lineup.
Updated Squad for Early ODIs
The revised squad for the first three ODIs now features Shubman Gill as captain, with Shreyas Iyer serving as vice-captain. The confirmed lineup includes prominent players such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (wicket-keeper), Axar Patel, Naman Dhir, Anshul Kamboj, Gurnoor Brar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Arshdeep Singh, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Mohammed Siraj, and Kuldeep Yadav. Additionally, Nitish Kumar Reddy is named in the squad specifically for the first ODI, while Auqib Nabi completes the 17-player roster.
Squad for Later Matches
For the fourth and fifth ODIs, a separate squad has been announced, indicating potential rotation or specific tactical considerations for the concluding matches. Shreyas Iyer will lead this squad as captain, with Ishan Kishan taking on the role of vice-captain and wicket-keeper. This lineup includes Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Naman Dhir, Auqib Nabi, Gurnoor Brar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Arshdeep Singh, Kumar Kushagra (wicket-keeper), Mohammed Siraj, Yash Thakur, and Kuldeep Yadav.
The inclusion of Auqib Nabi in both squads underscores his importance to the team's long-term plans or his current form being highly valued by the selectors. His transition from a later-stage addition to an early participant highlights his perceived readiness and suitability for the demands of the opening ODIs.