Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi has earned his maiden India ODI call-up for the upcoming three-match series against the West Indies. The pacer was previously selected as Jasprit Bumrah’s replacement for the Test series against Sri Lanka but is still waiting to make his international debut.
Nabi played a key role in Jammu and Kashmir’s historic Ranji Trophy triumph and has continued to impress with Surrey in England, including a four-wicket haul against Glamorgan in his ongoing County Championship match.
The three-match ODI series gives India an opportunity to assess domestic performers ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. Nabi’s recent performances have put him in the national spotlight, but his selection has also raised some eyebrows. Here are three reasons behind his inclusion in the squad.
Auqib Nabi’s Phenomenal Domestic Form Makes Him Hard to Ignore
Auqib Nabi has been one of Jammu and Kashmir’s standout performers in domestic cricket. He finished with 44 wickets during their historic Ranji Trophy triumph and also made history in the Duleep Trophy by becoming the first bowler to take four wickets in four balls in the tournament.
Nabi has also produced several match-winning performances in List A cricket. In 36 matches, he has scored 572 runs at an average of 27.24 and a strike rate of 111.72, while taking 56 wickets at 27.38 with an economy rate of 5.21.
His most memorable performance came against Hyderabad in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Chasing 269, J&K slipped to 90/7 before Nabi smashed an unbeaten 114 off 82 balls, including 10 fours and seven sixes. He shared a 182-run eighth-wicket partnership with Vanshaj Sharma and also took three wickets in the match.
Auqib Nabi’s Ability to Swing the Ball Earns Major Praise
Auqib Nabi’s biggest strength is his ability to move the new ball in both directions. His control and natural swing have made him a consistent threat with the new ball and helped him stand out among India’s emerging domestic pacers.
His performances have also caught the attention of established Indian players. Arshdeep Singh described Nabi’s bowling as “sensational stuff”.
Jammu and Kashmir batter Shubham Khajuria has also spoken highly of Nabi’s ability. Khajuria rated him above established pacers such as Mohammed Shami, Mukesh Kumar, and Harshit Rana for his movement, discipline, and ability to repeatedly beat the outside edge.
India Look to Build Pace Depth Ahead of 2027 World Cup
Auqib Nabi’s selection also comes at a time when India are looking to strengthen their pace-bowling options. Jasprit Bumrah has been rested from the ODI squad, while Mohammed Shami was not included, allowing the selectors to assess another pace option.
The selectors have picked Nabi alongside Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Gurnoor Brar for the three-match series against the West Indies. The home series allows the team to assess Nabi at the international level while managing the workload of established bowlers.
Nabi has already gained exposure through India A’s limited-overs programme, including the shadow tour against Sri Lanka A. His domestic record, List A consistency and ability to swing the ball have now earned him a chance to push for his international debut.
