The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) added Auqib Nabi to India’s Test setup as a backup for the Afghanistan match starting June 6 in Mullanpur.
The move came after strong criticism over his initial omission from the squad.
Nabi dominated the 2025‑26 Ranji Trophy with 60 wickets at an average of 12.56, leading Jammu & Kashmir to their first‑ever title. His consistent red‑ball form earned him national attention and a spot in the camp as selectors reassessed their options for future pace‑friendly tours.
Fans and former players, including Sanjay Manjrekar, criticised the earlier decision to exclude Nabi, calling it “ridiculous.” The BCCI reversed course and brought him in as a backup to maintain depth in the fast‑bowling department.
India’s current pace attack features Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Gurnoor Brar, with Jasprit Bumrah rested. Nabi’s presence in the camp keeps him match‑ready without altering the official squad announcement. Selectors will monitor his progress for the upcoming series later this year.
The Afghanistan Test marks only the second meeting between the two nations in the format. Shubman Gill will lead India ahead of the three‑match ODI series. For Nabi, the assignment offers valuable exposure to the national setup and a chance to prove his readiness for international cricket.
