Auqib Nabi has been picked up in the Indian squad for the two-match series against Sri Lanka, replacing the injured Jasprit Bumrah, and thus made his debut for India in Tests.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has given Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi his maiden India Test call-up as he was picked for the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka.
The right-arm pacer is coming into the fray after Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out with a knee injury in the ODI series against England recently.
Auqib Nabi Rewarded for Outstanding Domestic Form
Auqib Nabi has been picked for his two brilliant domestic seasons, during which he has become one of the most consistent and reliable pace bowlers in India.
The 29-year-old was instrumental in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ranji Trophy maiden victory, finishing as one of the top wicket takers of the tournament and gaining popularity for his disciplined and match-winning performances.
His impressive domestic record led the selectors to think that he was ready to step up a level in international cricket.
Strong India A Performances Boost Selection
Nabi had made his mark prior to his first call up to the senior team in the recent A tour of Sri Lanka by India.
The pacer was a constant threat to the Sri Lankan batsmen with his pace and accuracy and picked up some good wickets in the two four-day contests.
Those shows went to his credit for being selected to the national team and for his experience in playing in overseas conditions.
Bumrah Ruled Out Through Injury
India will miss out on top fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who has been recovering from a left knee injury that he picked up in the ODI series against England.
Bumrah was originally added to the squad for fitness clearance but the medical team decided that he was not fit enough to play Tests.
Nabi will have the chance to make his debut in India’s pace attack in the important World Test Championship series.
Gill to Lead India in Sri Lanka
Shubman Gill will lead the Indian side and KL Rahul will be the vice-captain of the Indian side for the two-Test series.
India are looking to build continuity in the squad with Young batter Sai Sudharsan also remaining in the squad, pending final fitness clearance, as they prepare for a hectic Test schedule.
The management will be required to have a balance of experienced campaigners and young domestic players.
Big Opportunity for Nabi
Auqib Nabi’s visit to Sri Lanka is his highlight in his cricket career.
Now the fast bowler has the chance to make his debut in the big game and showcase his quality, which has made him one of the most prolific performers in the Indian domestic circuit in the past two seasons.
He has a good chance to join the Indian fast-bowling squad for overseas engagements if he does a good job.
India Prepare for Crucial Test Challenge
The next two-match Test series against Sri Lanka is a part of the ICC World Test Championship and each match is crucial for India to score points in the championship.
India will be looking to get off to a flying start in the series as they have fresh faces as well as experienced players leading the way.
