Auqib Nabi's Ranji Trophy toil finally gets BCCI's stamp

The All India Senior Men’s Selection Committee has announced a strong 15‑member squad for the two Unofficial Tests against Sri Lanka A, beginning June 25 in Galle. Wicketkeeper‑batter Dhruv Jurel has been appointed captain, while Devdutt Padikkal will serve as vice‑captain to support him in leadership duties.

The most compelling subplot of the announcement is the maiden India A call‑up for Auqib Nabi. The 29‑year‑old pacer was overlooked for India’s one‑off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, but his performances in the Ranji Trophy 2025‑26 made him impossible to ignore.

Nabi bowled 284.2 overs across 17 innings, delivered 60 maidens, and finished with outstanding figures that included a best of 7 for 24. He claimed a total of 60 wickets at an average of 12.56, registering two four‑wicket hauls and as many as seven five‑wicket hauls.

Nabi’s inclusion adds a fresh edge to a squad that already looks well‑balanced under Jurel’s leadership. For India A, the series against Sri Lanka A is about providing opportunities to emerging talent, pushing hard for recognition in the senior team.

The series will get underway at the Galle International Stadium. The second unofficial Test will be played from July 2 at the same venue.

India A tour of Sri Lanka 2026

India A Squad | Tour of Sri Lanka 2026 (Multi‑Day Games)

Dhruv Jurel (C, WK), Sai Sudharsan, Ayush Pandey, Devdutt Padikkal (VC), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Harsh Dubey, Anshul Kamboj, Saransh Jain, N. Jagadeesan (WK), Gurnoor Brar, Aman Mokhade, Auqib Nabi, Shaik Rasheed, Yash Thakur, Zeeshan Ansari