SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi has attracted attention ahead of India’s five-match One-Day International series against New Zealand after reportedly troubling Virat Kohli with his swing and movement during a net session.
According to a report by RevSportz cited by NDTV, Nabi repeatedly beat Kohli outside the off stump before getting deliveries to move back into the batter, striking his pads and thigh pads. Kohli also played several well-timed shots during the session but was made to work by the Jammu and Kashmir pacer.
The 29-year-old’s performance in the nets has brought further attention to his rise in Indian cricket, particularly after an impressive domestic season in which he played a major role in Jammu and Kashmir’s maiden Ranji Trophy title.
Nabi claimed 60 wickets during the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy campaign and finished with 104 wickets across two prolific domestic seasons. His contribution was central to Jammu and Kashmir’s historic title-winning run.
His growing reputation earned him his first senior India call-up in August 2026, when he was brought into the Test squad for the Sri Lanka series following an injury to Jasprit Bumrah.
More recently, Nabi strengthened his credentials during India A’s tour of New Zealand, taking six wickets across two innings in the first unofficial Test against New Zealand A at Lincoln.
He was initially named in India’s squad for the fourth and fifth ODIs against New Zealand but was subsequently included in the first three matches after Prasidh Krishna was ruled out because of a hamstring injury.
The five-match series will begin in Auckland on November 4, with Nabi now available for selection throughout the contest.
The pacer, however, will be keen to improve on his first outing in international one-day cricket. On his ODI debut against the West Indies in Guwahati on September 30, 2026, he conceded 84 runs in 8.5 overs without taking a wicket.
His domestic performances and recent showing for India A have nevertheless strengthened his case for a place in the playing XI.
Nabi was among several pacers involved in India’s training session. Gurnoor Brar generated considerable bounce, while Anshul Kamboj maintained a disciplined line. Rohit Sharma also had a batting session, with KL Rahul and Ruturaj Gaikwad joining the practice later.
For the Baramulla-born bowler, the New Zealand series presents an opportunity to translate his impressive domestic record into success at the international level.
