Sourav Ganguly Advocates for Auqib Nabi's Inclusion in Indian Team
Ganguly's Praise for Auqib Nabi
Former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly has expressed his admiration for Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi, suggesting that he should represent India during the upcoming tour of England in July. Nabi has been instrumental in leading Jammu and Kashmir to the Ranji Trophy final, having taken an impressive 60 wickets this season, making him the leading wicket-taker in the 2025-2026 Ranji Trophy. His remarkable consistency has caught the attention of many, including Ganguly. In the final match, Nabi delivered an outstanding performance, taking 5 wickets for 54 runs, helping his team dismiss Karnataka for 293 in response to their first innings total of 584. Notably, he is only the third fast bowler in the 92-year history of the tournament to achieve 60 or more wickets in a single season.
Ganguly took to social media to commend Jammu and Kashmir's achievements and specifically highlighted Auqib Nabi's contributions. He tagged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, advocating for Nabi's debut in the national team during the England tour. Ganguly stated, "J&K has demonstrated what determination and effort can accomplish. They have made their region proud. A challenging environment breeds resilient individuals. Aqib Nabi is on the path to national colors, and England is the perfect place to begin this summer."
J&K has shown the world what effort and intent can do ..They have made that region so proud of them .. tuff environment makes tuff people. Aqib nabi on his way to national colours .. england is the place to start in the summer @bcci @imAagarkar @lonsaikia
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) February 27, 2026
Jammu and Kashmir's Historic Journey
Jammu Kashmir Inches Closer To Historic Win
The Ranji Trophy campaign for Jammu and Kashmir has been a remarkable journey, culminating in their first-ever final appearance. The team scored 584 runs in their first innings, with Shubham Pundir contributing a significant 121 runs, alongside other key performances from the batting lineup. In response, Karnataka, featuring prominent players like KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal, managed only 293 runs, with Agarwal scoring 160. As the match approaches its conclusion, a draw appears to be the most probable outcome, which would secure Jammu and Kashmir their first Ranji Trophy title based on their first innings lead.