Srinagar: At the Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar, on a brisk October afternoon, the valley once again witnessed the emergence of a fast-bowling force that refuses to be ignored. Jammu & Kashmir’s fiery pacer Auqib Nabi produced a spell of sheer brilliance, returning sensational figures of 6-2-5-5 against Rajasthan in their second innings — a performance that has all but sealed an innings victory for J&K in their Ranji Trophy clash.
But this wasn’t just another five-wicket haul. It was a statement — loud, clear, and powerful — from a cricketer who has been consistently dominating India’s domestic circuit but still waits for the selectors’ call.
A Match-Winning All-Round Display
Before dismantling Rajasthan’s top order, Auqib had already made his mark with the bat. Walking in at a crucial juncture, the right-hander smashed a 48-ball fifty, his maiden half-century in first-class cricket, helping J&K post a strong total of 282 in reply to Rajasthan’s 152. His knock was complemented by Abdul Samad’s 76 and Yudhvir Singh’s 53, but it was Nabi’s dual role that stood out — first rescuing the team with the bat, then destroying the opposition with the ball.
When Rajasthan came out to bat again, Nabi unleashed a furious opening spell, ripping through their top order in no time. His precision, pace, and movement under overcast Srinagar skies left Rajasthan reeling at 41 for 5, still trailing by 89 runs. His figures — 6 overs, 2 maidens, 5 runs, 5 wickets — perfectly encapsulated the dominance of a bowler in complete control of his craft.
Consistency Beyond Recognition
This isn’t a one-off performance. Auqib Nabi has been building his case brick by brick over the past few seasons. In the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy, he finished as the second-highest wicket-taker among all pacers, bagging 44 wickets in 8 matches at an astonishing average of 13.93.
His consistency earned him a place in the North Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy 2025, where he continued to impress with 6 wickets and 54 runs across two matches. Yet, despite these numbers, the selectors have continued to overlook him for India A and Rest of India selections — a baffling omission for one of the most impactful domestic performers of the past two seasons.
Even in the match against Mumbai , Auqib returned 7 wickets for 106 runs across two innings, alongside handy contributions of 21 and 37 not out with the bat — an all-round package any side would cherish.
The Case for a National Call-Up
India’s pace stocks are at a crossroads. Mohammed Shami’s injury concerns and Jasprit Bumrah’s workload management have created a vacuum in the national setup. While the selectors have been scouting for fresh blood, much of the attention seems to revolve around IPL performances — quick bursts of franchise cricket that often overshadow the grind of domestic cricket.
This is where Auqib Nabi’s story stands as a stark reminder of what India’s selectors might be missing. His numbers are not mere statistics; they are a testament to sustained excellence on unforgiving domestic pitches, against seasoned campaigners, over long spells — the kind of test that shapes a true red-ball cricketer.
At 27, Nabi is entering the peak of his career. He’s not just a tearaway quick; he’s evolved into a complete fast-bowling all-rounder capable of changing games with both bat and ball. His natural ability to move the ball both ways, coupled with a strong lower-order batting presence, makes him a rare and valuable asset — one India’s Test and ODI sides could benefit from immensely.
Selectors Need to Look Beyond IPL Glitter
The story of Auqib Nabi mirrors a recurring theme in Indian cricket — the underappreciation of domestic stalwarts who toil year after year without due recognition. While IPL success often fast-tracks careers, performers like Nabi, who thrive in the demanding red-ball ecosystem, are left on the sidelines.
It raises a pertinent question: If Auqib Nabi, with 44 wickets at under 14 and multiple five-wicket hauls, cannot break into India A or Rest of India sides — what more must a domestic player do?
Cricket boards talk about rewarding consistency and valuing first-class performance. Auqib Nabi has delivered both. All that’s missing now is acknowledgment — and an opportunity.
A Future India Prospect
As J&K tighten their grip on Rajasthan, it’s hard not to think about the larger picture. Auqib Nabi’s journey — from the training grounds in Srinagar to terrorizing domestic batting lineups — is emblematic of the quiet revolution in J&K cricket. With names like Abdul Samad, Umran Malik, Parvez Rasool, and Yudhvir Singh making waves, Auqib stands out as the next big name ready to rise.
If the selectors are truly looking for a bowler who combines skill, discipline, and hunger, the answer may already be thundering down in Srinagar.
Because sometimes, talent doesn’t need hype — it just needs to be seen.
