Srinagar: The omission of Jammu & Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi Dar from India’s Test squad has triggered widespread debate across Indian cricket circles, with several former cricketers and commentators expressing surprise and concern over the selectors’ decision.
Auqib, who enjoyed a remarkable domestic season and emerged as one of the most successful bowlers in the country, was overlooked despite finishing the recent Ranji Trophy campaign with an impressive haul of 60 wickets. His performances played a pivotal role in Jammu & Kashmir’s historic run in domestic cricket.
Vengsarkar Calls Decision “Absurd”
Former India captain Dilip Vengsarkar strongly criticized the selection committee for ignoring Auqib’s domestic exploits.
“The selectors’ decision to ignore him is absolutely absurd and baffling. What kind of selection is this? It is just not acceptable. It is an injustice,” Vengsarkar told media.
The former chief selector questioned the relevance of domestic cricket if consistent performers continue to be overlooked.
“If domestic cricket performances are not a criterion, then the BCCI should scrap domestic cricket,” he remarked.
Vengsarkar further emphasized that wicket-taking ability should remain the primary benchmark for selecting bowlers rather than raw pace alone.
Irfan Pathan Warns Against Ignoring Domestic Performers
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also raised concerns over the message being sent to domestic cricketers.
In a post on social media, Pathan wrote: “Do not discourage Ranji Trophy performances!”
Speaking later on his YouTube channel, Pathan argued that players who dominate domestic cricket deserve recognition at the highest level.
“The player who has taken the most wickets has to be rewarded. If you don’t do that, it is a problem,” he said.
Pathan suggested that concerns regarding Auqib’s pace may have influenced the selectors but pointed out that the J&K seamer has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to trouble top-class batters.
“If you do not reward this performance, it may cause a problem in the future. I hope Auqib gets his due later on, if not now,” Pathan added.
Aakash Chopra Seeks Clarity on Selection Logic
Former India opener and commentator Aakash Chopra also questioned the rationale behind the selection call.
While acknowledging the inclusion of Punjab pacer Gurnoor Brar based on his domestic record, Chopra noted that no bowler had matched Auqib’s wicket tally over the past two seasons.
“No one has taken more wickets than Auqib Nabi in the last little while. So what is the selection committee thinking?” Chopra asked.
He speculated that selectors may be prioritizing extra pace and bounce but said Auqib’s omission still raises legitimate questions.
Harsha Bhogle Concerned About Message to Domestic Cricketers
Veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle echoed similar sentiments, stating that Auqib’s exclusion sends the wrong message to players performing consistently in domestic cricket.
“I thought Auqib Nabi would be there. It doesn’t matter what pace he’s bowling. If he’s given you a hundred-plus wickets in two years at about 14, he needs to be encouraged,” Bhogle said.
Bhogle clarified that even if Auqib was not considered ready for an immediate Test debut, his inclusion in the squad would have served as recognition of sustained excellence.
“Auqib Nabi Dar has done everything that a bowler could do in India. I just worry about the message going out,” he added.
Growing Debate Around Domestic Cricket Rewards
The reactions from some of India’s most respected cricket voices have intensified the debate around the value of domestic cricket performances in national team selection.
Auqib’s omission has become one of the most discussed selection decisions in recent times, with critics arguing that overlooking the country’s leading wicket-taker risks discouraging performers in the domestic circuit. While selectors may have their reasons, the calls from Vengsarkar, Pathan, Chopra and Bhogle underline a broader concern: whether exceptional domestic performances are receiving the recognition they deserve at the national level.
