Ex-player slams BCCI over Auqib Nabi's snub

The selection of the squad for the upcoming one-off Test match against Afghanistan has ignited a debate, particularly concerning the omission of Jammu and Kashmir's promising fast bowler, Auqib Nabi. Nabi's exclusion has drawn sharp criticism from former India pacer Dodda Ganesh.

Nabi has been a standout performer in domestic cricket, emerging as the top wicket-taker in the Ranji Trophy for the past two seasons, accumulating over 100 wickets. He was also notably acquired by the Delhi Capitals for a significant sum of ₹8.4 crore in the IPL 2026 auction. Despite these achievements, selectors opted for uncapped Punjab fast bowler Gurnoor Brar as a backup.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar attempted to justify the decision, stating that while Nabi was considered and had excellent performances, the team composition and the specific needs for the Test in India led to the selection of other bowlers. However, Ganesh vehemently disagreed with Agarkar's reasoning, arguing that rewarding decent game time over unprecedented performances sends a discouraging message to aspiring cricketers dedicated to the Ranji Trophy.

Ganesh took to social media to voice his strong disapproval, stating that no justification could adequately explain Nabi's non-selection, especially when compared to players with minimal recent game time. He believes this oversight by the selectors could negatively impact the morale of young cricketers striving for success in domestic tournaments.