Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi has received a significant boost to his international cricket career after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) included him in the Indian squad for the first three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) against New Zealand.
The decision means that the 29-year-old right-arm pacer will now be part of the Indian team from the beginning of the five-match ODI series. Nabi was initially selected for the fourth and fifth ODIs, but the Men’s Selection Committee has now extended his inclusion to the opening three matches as well.
The BCCI announced the squad update on Saturday, October 31, bringing encouraging news for cricket followers in Jammu and Kashmir.
Nabi’s inclusion is an important development for Jammu and Kashmir cricket, which has witnessed growing recognition at the national level through the performances of its players in domestic competitions. His journey reflects the opportunities available to cricketers who consistently perform and establish themselves in competitive tournaments.
The fast bowler has earned attention through his performances in domestic cricket, particularly during Jammu and Kashmir’s historic Ranji Trophy campaign in the 2025-26 season. He played a major role in the team’s maiden Ranji Trophy title victory, finishing the tournament with an impressive 60 wickets.
His ability to take wickets consistently and contribute to his team’s success made him one of the prominent fast-bowling performers of the season. His achievements also helped bring greater attention to the cricketing talent emerging from Jammu and Kashmir.
His recent performances on the New Zealand tour have further strengthened his position. Representing India A in the opening unofficial Test against New Zealand A at Lincoln, Nabi claimed six wickets and impressed with his bowling. Performing in overseas conditions provided him with valuable experience and an opportunity to demonstrate his skills against unfamiliar opponents.
Before travelling to New Zealand, Nabi also represented Jammu and Kashmir in the Irani Cup against Rest of India, where he picked up four wickets. These performances have added to his growing reputation as a reliable fast bowler in the domestic circuit.
The squad update comes after Indian fast bowler Prasidh Krishna was ruled out of the five-match ODI series due to a hamstring injury. According to the BCCI, Krishna requires additional time to recover and regain the workload needed for competitive cricket. Nabi’s inclusion in the opening three matches follows this squad change, although the BCCI’s announcement does not explicitly describe him as Krishna’s replacement.
India will be led by Shubman Gill in the first three ODIs, while Shreyas Iyer will serve as vice-captain. The squad also features experienced international players Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav, alongside several other players.
India’s updated squad for the first three ODIs:
Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Naman Dhir, Anshul Kamboj, Gurnoor Brar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Arshdeep Singh, Ishan Kishan, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy (first ODI only) and Auqib Nabi.
The five-match ODI series will begin on November 4, with the opening match scheduled in Auckland. The second ODI will take place in Wellington on November 7, while the third match is scheduled for November 10 in Hamilton. The final two matches will be played on November 13 and 15 at Mount Maunganui.
For young cricketers across Jammu and Kashmir, Nabi’s progress offers encouragement and demonstrates how strong performances at the domestic level can open doors to international opportunities. His achievements have also brought attention to the region’s growing presence in Indian cricket.
His inclusion in the opening three matches gives him an opportunity to remain with the national squad throughout the series and work towards securing a place in the playing eleven. Cricket followers in Jammu and Kashmir will be keen to see him get another opportunity to represent the country and make an impression against New Zealand.
As India prepares for the upcoming series, Nabi’s selection has added another encouraging chapter to Jammu and Kashmir’s cricketing journey. His continued progress will be closely followed by fans who have supported his rise from domestic cricket to the national stage.
