Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi has joined Surrey for a three-match stint in the County Championship, with the move providing the promising seamer an opportunity to gain experience of English conditions ahead of India’s tour of New Zealand later this year.Nabi, who recently received his maiden India call-up as a replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka, has travelled to the United Kingdom and is set to make his Surrey debut against Yorkshire at The Oval on Wednesday.
The 29-year-old will also be available for Surrey’s next two matches against Sussex in Hove from September 8-11 and Glamorgan at The Oval from September 15-18.
The county side had been looking to strengthen its bowling attack, particularly with a swing bowler, and Nabi’s ability to move the ball is expected to be useful in the English conditions.The stint could also prove significant for Nabi’s international ambitions.
Nabi has emerged as one of the most prolific uncapped fast bowlers in Indian domestic cricket. Representing Jammu and Kashmir, he was the leading wicket-taker in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy, taking 60 wickets at an average of just over 12.5. His campaign included a five-wicket haul in the Ranji Trophy final, helping J&K clinch their maiden title, while he also claimed nine wickets in the semi-final.
He has taken more than 100 wickets across the last two Ranji Trophy seasons and also grabbed headlines in the 2025 Duleep Trophy when he took four wickets in four balls for North Zone.His performances earned him an IPL contract with Delhi Capitals, for whom he played five matches during the 2026 season.
Nabi is expected to return to India in time for the India A series against Australia A, beginning September 22 in Puducherry.
“It’s an honour to join Surrey, one of the best clubs in England,” Nabi said.
