Aakash Chopra explains why Jasprit Bumrah’s injury is a ‘godsent opportunity’ for Auqib Nabi

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Jasprit Bumrah’s injury ahead of India’s two-match Test series against Sri Lanka has sparked plenty of discussion regarding who should lead the pace attack in his absence. While the BCCI has already named Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi as Bumrah’s replacement, former India batter Aakash Chopra believes the call is fully justified and described the opportunity as a “godsent” moment for the young pacer.

Sharing his thoughts on his YouTube channel, Chopra praised Nabi’s impressive red-ball record and insisted that the right-arm seamer deserved to be the first name considered once Bumrah was ruled out. According to Chopra, Nabi’s domestic performances over the last two seasons made him an automatic choice for the national side.

Reacting to Bumrah’s injury setback, Chopra said the unfortunate development could become a career-defining opportunity for Nabi, who has consistently excelled in first-class cricket. The former India opener highlighted that the Jammu and Kashmir pacer has accumulated well over 100 first-class wickets in the last two years, including a remarkable 60-wicket Ranji Trophy campaign last season. Chopra stressed that red-ball performances should carry greater importance than IPL displays when selecting a squad for a Test series.

“Auqib Nabi should be at the top of the list. He has more than 100 First-class wickets in the last two years. He had 60 First-class wickets last season. He was left out, but this might be a godsent opportunity. Forget the IPL because he has performed well with the red ball, and this is a red-ball tour. I think Auqib Nabi should be an automatic choice,” Chopra said.

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While Nabi remained Chopra’s preferred replacement, he also identified Anshul Kamboj as another deserving contender for India’s pace attack. Chopra pointed out that Kamboj has already earned his Test debut and has consistently delivered in domestic cricket. He noted that the Haryana pacer possesses an impressive first-class record and should remain firmly in contention whenever India require another fast bowler.

“When I think about a second name, I remember Anshul Kamboj. He made his debut on the England tour. He has played only one match to date, but he has been consistent. If you see his First-class numbers, you will say he is very good. You should consider AK-47 because he has form and rhythm and has First-class wickets to his name. So he is the second candidate. One of these two – Auqib Nabi No. 1, Anshul Kamboj No. 2,” he concluded.

Nabi’s selection comes after a sensational run in domestic cricket, where he has taken 162 wickets in 43 first-class matches at an outstanding average of 18.63. The 24-year-old also impressed during the recent India A tour of Sri Lanka, strengthening his case for a maiden senior call-up. With Bumrah unavailable, the youngster now has the chance to justify the faith shown by both the selectors and former cricketers like Chopra during India’s upcoming Test series in Sri Lanka.

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