Irfan Pathan Highlights Auqib Nabi's Unique Bowling Strengths Ahead of International Debut

Nabi's Call-Up and Pathan's Insights

Irfan Pathan, the former Indian all-rounder, believes that Auqib Nabi's ability to induce mistakes from top batsmen while they are defending is a significant asset as he gears up for his international debut. Nabi, a pacer from Jammu and Kashmir, received his long-awaited call-up to the Indian team on Monday, stepping in for the injured Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming two-Test series in Sri Lanka starting August 15.

Pathan, who first recognized Nabi's talent during trials in Srinagar back in 2018 and later guided young cricketers in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizes that Nabi's natural bowling action, wrist positioning, and ball movement make him effective even without high speed.

The Importance of Skill Over Speed

"The ideal speed for effective swing bowling is around 135 kph. If you can achieve late swing, you're in a good position," Pathan remarked in an interview. He believes Nabi can consistently bowl at speeds of 133-135 kph due to his rhythm and action.

However, Pathan insists that pace is just one aspect of a bowler's skill set. The crucial factor is whether a bowler can dismiss high-caliber batsmen while they are defending. He noted, "Can the bowler get top-quality batsmen out while they are defending? That's the quality you look for."

Domestic Success and Future Challenges

Pathan has witnessed Nabi's ability to challenge elite batsmen in domestic cricket, including during the Ranji Trophy final where he played a pivotal role in Jammu and Kashmir's historic victory over Karnataka. "He troubled KL Rahul in that match, even without taking a wicket," Pathan recalled.

As Nabi prepares for Test cricket, Pathan acknowledges that the format presents a greater challenge, especially on flat pitches. He stated, "In Test cricket, the challenge intensifies. Sometimes, you encounter the flattest pitches, and you need to find ways to create opportunities."

Confidence Boost and Learning Opportunities

Pathan, who took 301 international wickets, believes that a bowler doesn't need to bowl at express speeds if they possess the skill to outsmart batsmen. He expressed that Nabi's inclusion in the squad, even as a replacement, will significantly boost his confidence. "Being part of the squad is a major achievement," he added.

Training alongside India's top batsmen will provide Nabi with invaluable experience. Pathan remarked, "Playing for India is the pinnacle of achievement, especially in Test cricket. Bowling against high-quality batsmen will teach him a lot, and the management will also get a glimpse of his capabilities in practice."

Recognition of Domestic Performances

Pathan believes Nabi's domestic performances warranted recognition sooner, but he is pleased that the opportunity has finally arrived. "His domestic success has been acknowledged, and I thought he should have been rewarded earlier," he stated.

Reflecting on their first meeting during the 2018 trials, Pathan noted that Nabi's skill and endurance in bowling long spells stood out. He emphasized that his selection process focused on identifying talent without bias towards a player's background.

Advice on Preserving Bowling Action

Pathan's key advice to Nabi is to maintain the bowling action that has brought him success rather than chasing extra speed. "When I first met him, I told him, 'Never change your action, no matter what anyone says,'" Pathan recalled.

He explained that Nabi's action helps him maintain alignment and control, which is crucial for effective bowling. "With this action, you achieve a straight seam. Changing it could jeopardize your bowling performance," he cautioned.

Pathan concluded that Nabi's consistent action, wrist position, and ability to control the ball are vital to his success.