Auqib Nabi Set for Possible County Cricket Stint as BCCI Plans for New Zealand Tests

Auqib Nabi could take a different route from Gurnoor Brar in India's preparations for the upcoming Test tour of New Zealand, with the BCCI exploring a short county cricket stint in England for the Jammu & Kashmir fast bowler.

Nabi was part of India's Test squad for the recent Sri Lanka series but did not feature in either match. Rather than immediately returning him to domestic cricket, the Indian selectors are understood to be keen on giving him exposure to England's seamer-friendly conditions through the final rounds of the County Championship.

The move is particularly significant because Nabi has emerged as one of India's most impressive red-ball performers over the past two Ranji Trophy seasons. He took 60 wickets in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy at an extraordinary average of 12.56, finishing as the tournament's leading wicket-taker and playing a central role in Jammu & Kashmir's historic maiden Ranji title.

His seven five-wicket hauls and 7/24 best bowling figures highlighted his remarkable consistency. He also continued his impact in the knockout stages, including a five-wicket haul in the final against Karnataka.

According to reports, the BCCI is discussing a short-term deal with English counties, with Surrey among the clubs linked with the pacer. The intention is to give Nabi two or three first-class games before India's New Zealand assignment, where his ability to move the new ball could make him a valuable option.

If the county move fails to materialise, Nabi is expected to return to India A duty, with matches against Australia in Puducherry and the Irani Cup offering further opportunities.

The J&K pacer has been a formidable force in domestic cricket for the last two seasons. With 104 wickets in the last two Ranji campaigns, Auqib has put his name in the mix of international cricket, and a county move can bolster his India debut prospects in the New Zealand series.