Auqib Nabi Replaces Injured Bumrah in India Test Squad

The Cliff News | 3 August 2026

Jammu and Kashmir's promising fast bowler, Auqib Nabi, has received his much-anticipated maiden call-up to the Indian Test squad. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced his inclusion on Monday as a replacement for the injured Jasprit Bumrah ahead of the Test series against Sri Lanka, scheduled to commence on August 15.

The 29-year-old seamer, hailing from Baramulla, becomes only the second cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to represent India at the national level, following in the footsteps of Parvez Rasool. Nabi's selection comes after a stellar domestic performance over the past two seasons, including a pivotal role in Jammu and Kashmir's historic maiden Ranji Trophy triumph earlier this year. He had been on the radar for national selection despite missing out on previous squads.

Nabi's Dominant Domestic Record

Nabi's recent exploits in domestic cricket have been nothing short of remarkable. He claimed a total of 104 wickets across the last two Ranji Trophy seasons. His exceptional performance in the 2025-26 campaign saw him bag 60 wickets, a significant contribution to Jammu and Kashmir's groundbreaking Ranji Trophy victory.

Prior to his Test squad inclusion, Nabi was also part of the India A squad that recently toured Sri Lanka. During the tour, he impressed by taking six wickets in two matches played in Galle against Sri Lanka A, further solidifying his credentials for higher honours.

Bumrah's Absence Creates a WTC Concern

Meanwhile, the absence of Jasprit Bumrah is expected to leave a considerable void in India's bowling attack. His injury is particularly concerning as India looks to bolster their World Test Championship (WTC) hopes. Currently positioned fifth in the WTC standings, the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka is seen as critical for India to maintain their aspirations of qualifying for the WTC final.

Sources indicate that the impact injury Bumrah sustained at Cardiff has unfortunately exacerbated a knee issue that has been troubling him since the T20 World Cup. The extent of his recovery and return to international cricket remains a key point of focus.