Akib Nabi Should Not Have Been Bumrah's Replacement, Says Wasim Jaffer Akib Nabi, a fast bowler from Jammu and Kashmir, is currently on a tour of Sri Lanka with the Indian team. Former India opener Wasim Jaffer has expressed his views on Akib's inclusion in the squad, stating that he should not have been selected as a replacement for injured pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Bumrah, who is still recovering from a knee injury, is unavailable for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, which starts on August 15. Akib, who has been performing exceptionally well in the Ranji Trophy, was chosen to fill the gap left by Bumrah. Akib's inclusion in the Indian squad marks a significant milestone for Jammu and Kashmir cricket. He is the third player from the region to enter the senior national team and the first to make it to the Test squad. In the past two Ranji Trophy seasons, Akib has taken 104 wickets, including a record 60 wickets in the 2025-26 season, which helped his team win the championship for the first time. Jaffer, while happy about Akib's selection, believes the bowler should have been given a direct spot in the squad rather than being labeled as a replacement. Jaffer emphasized that Akib's performance in the Ranji Trophy, particularly his ability to consistently take wickets under pressure, warrants a first-choice spot in the national team. He praised Akib's dedication and noted that the young bowler has been a key player for Jammu and Kashmir, contributing significantly to their success. Jaffer also highlighted the importance of giving Akib a chance to prove himself in international cricket, as his performances in domestic cricket have been exceptional. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has also weighed in on Akib's strengths.#jasprit_bumrah #irfan_pathan #jammu_and_kashmir #akib_nabi #wasim_jaffer
