Auqib Nabi (Source: AP)
With the IPL 2026 going on in full swing, the excitement is all around the franchise cricket, but it clearly seems that the BCCI has already started preparing for India's full-packed international calendar year, starting with a home series against Afghanistan in June.
The Afghanistan series will feature a one-off Test in New Chandigarh from June 6 to 10, followed by three ODIs between June 14 and 20. Soon after, India will travel to Ireland for a two-match T20I series.
With such a tight schedule, the BCCI selectors are expected to rotate players, opening doors for fresh talent. One name that has generated significant buzz is Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi.
Aquib Nabi's India debut on the cards Vs Afghanistan
As the excitement is already building for the Afghanistan tour of India 2026, an exclusive report from the Times of India (TOI) stated that several big names will not be included in the Test squad to manage workload. The reports included two big names: Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah.
This decision could pave the way for new faces, with Auqib Nabi among the frontrunners for India's maiden call-up in the Test squad.
Selectors have been closely monitoring domestic performances, and Auqib Nabi's name has come up alongside players like Gurnoor Brar, Manav Suthar, Harsh Dubey, and Devdutt Padikkal. All of them have been part of the India A setup and are seen as future prospects.
The selection, however, will depend on coordination between the team management and medical staff. With no WTC points attached to the one-off Test against Afghanistan, the BCCI management is keen on avoiding unnecessary workload on senior players.
Also Read: Indian PM Narendra Modi Brings Up Auqib Nabi Before IPL Debut
This creates a perfect opportunity for emerging players like Auqib Nabi to step into the spotlight and prove themselves at the highest level.
“One thing is clear with this selection panel: they rarely jump the gun. It’s no secret that Gurnoor and Manav have been very impressive, as have Harsh, Auqib and Devdutt. It will all boil down to the discussions between the thinktank and the medical team because optimum utilisation of resources is going to be key here. No point putting your star players under the sun for a five-day fixture which offers no WTC points " ( As per Times of India).
Auqib Nabi's Ranji Trophy 2025-26 campaign in a nutshell
Auqib Nabi has been in the news after his remarkable performance in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26. He delivered a historic performance, finishing as the leading wicket-taker with 60 wickets. His efforts played a crucial role in Jammu and Kashmir securing their maiden Ranji Trophy title.
The 29-year-old pacer showcased exceptional consistency, registering seven five-wicket hauls and even producing a 12-wicket match performance in a knockout game. It is important to mention that he has the ability to swing the ball both ways.
Taking a look at his FC stats, he has played 41 matches and scalped 156 wickets at an economy rate of 2.89. In List A, the star player has played 36 matches and bagged 56 wickets at an economy rate of 5.20.
Why could Auqib Nabi be India's next big Red-Ball asset?
India's pace attack has heavily relied on Jasprit Bumrah in recent years. While Mohammed Siraj has stepped up in crucial moments, the team still needs more reliable options in the longest format of the game.
Introducing Nabi into the Test setup could provide much-needed depth. His ability to swing the ball and maintain tight lines will reduce the pressure on Jasprit Bumrah.
Currently, the fast bowler is playing in the IPL 2026 for Delhi Capitals. He was sold to the Delhi Capitals for ₹8.40 crore in the IPL 2026 auction. However, his IPL 2026 has not gone as expected; he has played 2 matches and taken no wickets so far.
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