'Auqib Nabi shouldn't have come as a replacement': Ex-cricketer on India squad

Auqib Nabi's impressive rise in domestic cricket has finally earned him a place in India's Test setup, with the Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler drafted into the squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka following Jasprit Bumrah's injury.The call-up comes after a remarkable run in domestic cricket, where Nabi established himself as one of the country's leading pace bowlers. His performances during Jammu and Kashmir's historic Ranji Trophy-winning campaign had already triggered widespread debate over his omission from the original squad.Former India opener Wasim Jaffer believes those discussions were justified, insisting Nabi had already done enough to merit selection before being named as Bumrah's replacement.“It’s a big thing and a very happy moment. And you are absolutely right that after performing so well, he (Auqib Nabi) probably shouldn’t have come in as a replacement in the first place. But better late than never. I’m very happy for him because he deserves to be in the initial squad," Jaffer said on his YouTube channel.Nabi has enjoyed two exceptional Ranji Trophy seasons, claiming 104 wickets, including 60 during the 2025-26 campaign, as Jammu and Kashmir secured their maiden Ranji Trophy title. Alongside his pace bowling, he has also contributed valuable runs lower down the order.The right-arm seamer further strengthened his case during the recent India A tour of Sri Lanka, where he picked up six wickets in two first-class matches.Jaffer also hailed Nabi's achievement of becoming the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to earn a place in India's Test team based on his performances, expressing hope that the youngster would seize the opportunity if selected in the playing XI.“When a player performs this well, he should be a first-choice selection. But anyway, congratulations to him for becoming the first player to make it through in the Test team from J&K and on the basis of his performance. I hope that if he gets an opportunity, he proves why he has performed so well,” he added.Nabi's inclusion caps a memorable journey built on sustained domestic excellence, with the pacer now set to compete for his maiden Test cap in the upcoming series against Sri Lanka.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.