Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina expressed his opinion that Jammu and Kashmir bowler Auqib Nabi should have been included in the Test squad for the one-off match against Afghanistan. Despite Nabi’s impressive performance in the Ranji Trophy, selectors chose Gurnoor Brar over him as the additional fast bowling option alongside Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna. Raina acknowledged the bowling prowess of Siraj and Prasidh but highlighted Nabi’s contribution to Jammu and Kashmir’s Ranji Trophy victory.
Raina mentioned that Shubman Gill, the captain, likely had a say in the selection of bowlers for the squad. Gurnoor Brar’s selection is viewed as a strategic move due to his attributes such as raw pace and the ability to generate bounce on any pitch. Although Gurnoor has a relatively modest record, his inclusion is based on his potential and unique qualities that set him apart from other bowlers.
In addition to Gurnoor, left-arm spinners Manav Suthar and Harsh Dubey earned maiden call-ups to the Test and ODI teams. Raina commended the selection committee, particularly Pragyan Ojha and RP Singh, for their keen observation of domestic matches and recognition of top performers during the red-ball season.
