After years of relentless performances in domestic cricket, Auqib Nabi's long-awaited dream of representing India has finally become a reality.
The Jammu and Kashmir pacer has earned his maiden senior national team call-up after being named as Jasprit Bumrah's replacement for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, beginning on August 15.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the development on Monday, with Bumrah ruled out after failing to recover completely from the left knee injury he sustained during the ODI series against England.
"The Men's Selection Committee has named Auqib Nabi as Bumrah's replacement. The Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler earns his maiden call-up to the senior national team," the BCCI said in a statement.
Nabi's selection is the reward for a remarkable run in domestic cricket over the past two seasons. The 29-year-old spearhead claimed 104 wickets during that period and played a pivotal role in guiding Jammu and Kashmir to their historic Ranji Trophy triumph.
Auqib, who has risen through the ranks, has overcome many adversities. Born in Baramulla, I never had infrastructure on par with the rest of the country. There were significant obstacles, lack of proper facilities in his early days. Despite that, Auqib has always maintained his equilibrium.
Over the last two years amid his stellar rise, he has kept his feet on the ground. Someone who has worked closely with Auqib is former J&K bowling coach P Krishnakumar, who was ecstatic after learning Auqib's inclusion in the Indian team.
"It is a great day for Jammu and Kashmir cricket. Auqib, who has battled so much, deserves this opportunity. The constraints he has faced in childhood and from there to reach this level is amazing. I wish him the best and hope he plays many Test matches for India."
Krishnakumar was part of the J&K coaching team last season, when the team won their historic Ranji Trophy title. Auqib was a central figure in their renaissance with 60 wickets to his name. And the coach, who is currently part of the BCCI CoE in Bengaluru, pinpoints the trait which has propelled Auqib.
"I have worked with him and I know his attitude is very good. He's always ready to learn new things, improve and get better. That has made the biggest difference in his career; his will to continuously challenge himself and be a better version is the biggest factor."
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