NEW DELHI: Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi has received another significant opportunity to remain involved with the Indian cricket team, with the pacer set to stay back in New Zealand to assist India’s preparations for the upcoming two-match Test series against the Black Caps.
Nabi is among three fast bowlers identified by India’s coaching staff to remain in New Zealand after the ongoing ODI series. Arshdeep Singh and Gurnoor Brar are the other two pacers expected to join the Test contingent as net bowlers and reserve options.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed the development, revealing that the trio would be available to help the Test squad prepare for the challenges of New Zealand conditions.
Speaking about the team’s plans, Kotak said: “Gurnoor, maybe Nabi, and I think Arsh is also staying back.”
The decision represents an important opportunity for Nabi, who has been part of India’s ODI setup for the New Zealand tour and is now expected to gain valuable exposure while working alongside the country’s Test specialists.
Auqib Nabi’s opportunity to impress in New Zealand
For the J&K pacer, remaining with the national team beyond the ODI assignment could prove particularly valuable.
New Zealand’s conditions are traditionally challenging for fast bowlers, with swing, seam movement and additional bounce often playing an important role. Nabi’s involvement in the Test preparation camp will allow him to continue working in those conditions while supporting India’s red-ball preparations.
The pacer has already made an impression during the ongoing ODI series. After an expensive outing in the opening match, Nabi bounced back in the second ODI, claiming two wickets to contribute to India’s bowling effort.
His continued association with the national team also provides an opportunity to work closely with the coaching staff and established international players.
India divide coaching staff ahead of Test series
India are also planning to divide their coaching staff following the third ODI against New Zealand in Hamilton.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir and spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule are expected to remain with the ODI squad for the remaining two matches in Mount Maunganui.
Meanwhile, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and fast-bowling coach Morne Morkel are likely to travel to Wellington to oversee preparations for the Test series.
The Indian Test squad is scheduled to begin its preparatory camp on November 11, with the coaching staff planning five to six practice sessions before the opening Test.
Kotak said the ongoing ODI series had already provided useful exposure to New Zealand’s playing conditions, particularly the swing and seam movement available on the pitches.
India prepare for two-Test challenge
India’s two-match Test series against New Zealand begins on November 19, with the visitors looking to make the most of their preparation time ahead of the red-ball assignment.
The presence of Nabi, Arshdeep and Gurnoor as additional bowling resources is expected to help the Test specialists prepare against quality pace bowling during the training sessions.
Although Nabi is not part of India’s officially announced Test squad, his retention in the New Zealand setup is a positive development for the Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler.
For J&K cricket, his continued involvement with the national team is another encouraging milestone, as the pacer gets an opportunity to remain around the highest level of Indian cricket and further strengthen his credentials.
