Jammu and Kashmir pace sensation Auqib Nabi has earned his maiden India senior team call-up after a remarkable run in domestic cricket. The 24-year-old pacer admitted he expected his performances to eventually earn him a place in the national side, but remained focused on the one thing within his control — taking wickets consistently.

Nabi finished as the leading wicket-taker in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy, claiming 60 wickets and playing a crucial role in Jammu and Kashmir’s historic maiden title triumph. Across the last two Ranji Trophy seasons, he has taken an impressive 104 wickets, establishing himself as one of India’s most promising domestic fast bowlers.

His performances also earned him a place in the India A squad for the tour of Sri Lanka. Nabi picked up six wickets across two first-class matches, further strengthening his case for senior selection ahead of India’s upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka.

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“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,” Auqib Nabi said in a BCCI video interview with Saransh Jain.

Auqib Nabi finally opens up on India Test snub despite role in J&K’s maiden Ranji Trophy title, says ‘I had expectations. But…’#INDvsSL https://t.co/afAF2EvEzP

— Sports Tak (@sports_tak) August 13, 2026

Nabi believes his consistent performances would eventually bring the reward of an India call-up. He maintained that his focus was always on delivering with the ball rather than worrying about selection. “I had the same mindset when I bowled; my job is to take wickets and the rest is up to God,” he added.

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The call-up marks a major milestone for Nabi and Jammu and Kashmir cricket. If selected in the playing XI, he could become the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to represent India in Test cricket. Nabi has been drafted into the squad as a replacement for India’s premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, giving him an opportunity to make his international debut on the biggest stage.