‘I Had Expectations But…’: Auqib Nabi Breaks Silence On India Snub Post-Ranji Trophy Heroics

Auqib Nabi, J&K pacer, earns maiden India Test call-up for Sri Lanka series, replacing Jasprit Bumrah. He led J&K to a Ranji Trophy title.

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Auqib Nabi selected for India’s Test series vs Sri Lanka.

Nabi took 104 wickets in last two Ranji Trophy seasons.

He is the first Test player from Jammu and Kashmir.

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Auqib Nabi (center) played the starring role in J&K’s maiden Ranji title. (PTI Photo)

Star Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi has said that he definitely expected to be picked up for the senior Indian team after he finished as the highest wicket-taker in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy and took his team to a maiden title, but as a cricketer, he believed in performing consistently, eventually leading to a selection for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka.

Nabi has entered the Indian team in strong form, having taken 104 wickets over the last two Ranji Trophy seasons, including 60 in the 2025-26 campaign, when he played a key role in Jammu and Kashmir’s maiden title win.

Nabi was also part of the India A team that toured Sri Lanka, claiming six wickets in two first-class games.

“Yes, I had expectations. But as a cricketer, you have to have the mindset that your job is to perform. The rest of the people will watch you. I did think I would get a call-up,” Nabi said while speaking to Saransh Jain in a BCCI video.

“Today or tomorrow, I will join the Indian team because you have been doing well for so many years; you have to reap the fruits of your hard work. I had the same mindset when I bowled; my job is to take wickets and the rest is up to God,” Nabi said.

“I feel good whenever I get a call-up. My family is happy; I cannot ask for more,” Nabi added.

This is the star pacer’s first call-up to the India senior team. If he makes his Test debut, Nabi will become the first Test player from Jammu and Kashmir. He was drafted into the team as a replacement for India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah.

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Original source: https://www.news18.com/