Aaqib Nabi Replaces Injured Jasprit Bumrah in India Test Squad for Sri Lanka Series
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Mumbai
- Aug 04, 2026
- 117
India have made a major change to their Test squad ahead of the crucial two-match series against Sri Lanka, with promising Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Aaqib Nabi replacing pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who has been ruled out because of a knee injury. The opening Test is scheduled to begin on August 15 in Galle.
The decision follows medical assessments confirming that Bumrah has not fully recovered from his injury. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the team management have chosen not to risk the veteran pacer, keeping his long-term fitness as the top priority.
Aaqib Nabi Earns Maiden India Test Call-Up
The 23-year-old speedster has received his first-ever selection in India's Test squad after producing outstanding performances in domestic cricket. His inclusion marks a historic moment, making him the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to earn a direct call-up to India's senior Test team. While Parvez Rasool and Umran Malik previously represented India, both featured only in the limited-overs formats.
Also Read
ICC Set To Introduce Major Cricket Rule Changes Across Test, ODI And T20 Formats
https://thetripurapost.com/NewsTripuraPost/icc-set-to-introduce-major-cricket-rule-changes-across-test-odi-and-t20-formats-3190.html
Stellar Ranji Trophy Performance Sealed His Place
Nabi enjoyed a sensational 2025-26 Ranji Trophy campaign, finishing with 60 wickets in just 10 matches, including seven five-wicket hauls. Over the last two Ranji seasons, he has claimed 104 wickets, emerging as one of India's most consistent red-ball fast bowlers.
His performances in the knockout rounds were equally impressive. Match-winning spells against Madhya Pradesh, Bengal, and Karnataka played a vital role in helping Jammu and Kashmir capture their maiden Ranji Trophy title, highlighting his ability to perform under pressure.
India A Success Strengthened His Credentials
Before receiving the national call-up, Nabi also impressed during India A's recent tour of Sri Lanka, taking six wickets in two first-class matches, further strengthening his case for Test selection.
India Eye Crucial WTC Points
India will head into the Sri Lanka series with KL Rahul serving as vice-captain, while Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel will share wicketkeeping duties. The series carries significant importance for India's hopes of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship Final, particularly after the team's recent 0-2 home Test series defeat against South Africa.
Stay ahead with the latest Tripura News, Northeast News, India News, World News, Sports, Business, Politics, and Breaking Updates only on TheTripuraPost.
🌐 Visit: www.thetripurapost.com