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New Delhi: The dreams of Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Aaqib Nabi, who created a stir in domestic cricket with his swing and sharp pace, have finally got new wings. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has included Aaqib Nabi in the Test team for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour. The 29-year-old Aaqib has been selected as a replacement for the injured Jasprit Bumrah for the two-match series starting August 15. Aaqib, who hails from Baramulla, has become the second cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to make it to the Indian national team after Parvez Rasool.

Awarded for consistent performance

Aaqib Nabi’s call-up to the national team was made possible by his consistent hard work and outstanding performances during the domestic season. In the last two Ranji Trophy seasons, he has troubled batsmen with his sharp bowling, taking a total of 104 wickets.

His magical performance played a key role in Jammu and Kashmir’s historic first Ranji Trophy title. Furthermore, during the recent tour of Sri Lanka, Aaqib took six wickets in two matches played at Galle.

Bumrah’s absence was a setback

The injury-hit absence of star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is being considered a major blow to the Indian bowling attack. Bumrah suffered a knee injury during the ODI against England in Cardiff. Although he later played in the Indian Premier League, the setback during the England tour resurfaced his old injury.

The challenge of keeping the WTC final hopes alive

The Indian team has currently slipped to fifth place in the World Test Championship (WTC) points table. Therefore, this Test series against Sri Lanka is crucial for India to keep their hopes of reaching the final alive. In the absence of an experienced bowler like Bumrah, leading the Indian fast bowling will be a significant challenge, but Aaqib Nabi, who has consistently achieved success in domestic cricket, will have a great opportunity to prove himself on this big stage.