Auqib Nabi replaces injured Bumrah in India’s squad for Sri Lanka tests
MUMBAI: Uncapped fast bowler Auqib Nabi has replaced the injured Jasprit Bumrah in India’s squad for the two-test series against Sri Lanka, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced.
The 29-year-old seamer from Jammu and Kashmir earns his maiden call-up to the national side after an impressive domestic campaign. Nabi claimed 104 wickets across the last two Ranji Trophy seasons, including 60 in the 2025-26 edition, helping Jammu and Kashmir secure their maiden Ranji Trophy title.
Nabi also featured for India A during their recent tour of Sri Lanka, taking six wickets in two first-class matches to strengthen his case for senior selection. If he makes his debut during the series, he will become the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to play a test for India.
Bumrah was ruled out after failing to recover from a left knee injury sustained during the second one-day international against England in Cardiff last month. The pace spearhead did not travel with the squad to Sri Lanka as he continues his rehabilitation.
India’s pace attack for the series will now comprise Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar and Nabi.
The two-match series begins in Galle on Aug. 15, with India scheduled to play a three-day warm-up match in Colombo from Aug. 7.
Shubman Gill will captain the side, with KL Rahul serving as vice-captain. B. Sai Sudharsan remains in the squad subject to receiving fitness clearance.
