Auqib Nabi shares his surprise at receiving an India call-up: "I didn't expect it." - Watch now.

Jammu and Kashmir cricketer Auqib Nabi has realized his long-held dream of representing India in Test cricket after being named as a replacement for the injured Jasprit Bumrah in the squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka. This opportunity comes after years of dedication and consistent performances, particularly highlighted by his pivotal role in Jammu and Kashmir's historic Ranji Trophy victory last season.

Nabi, who has been striving for a call-up to the national team, expressed his unwavering belief that his hard work would eventually be recognized. In a conversation with fellow uncapped player Saransh Jain, Nabi reflected on his journey, stating, "Yes, I had expectations. But the mindset of a cricket player should be of performing and that the other people are watching." He emphasized the importance of focusing on performance, which he believed would lead to opportunities. "I knew that I would get the call-up today or tomorrow because when you are doing well for so many years, you are meant to get the returns from the hard work," he added.

Upon receiving the news of his selection, Nabi felt a wave of joy, sharing, "My family is very happy and I don't think there can be anything greater than this." His journey to this point has been marked by resilience and a commitment to excellence on the field.

Saransh Jain, who also recently earned his place in the national squad, echoed Nabi's sentiments about the necessity of patience in the pursuit of a Test career. Reflecting on his own path, Saransh noted, "You have to have patience in Test cricket and if you want to play Test cricket for India, you have to have patience in that too." He recounted his debut in the Ranji Trophy during the 2014-15 season and the sacrifices made along the way, attributing much of his success to the support of his family, particularly his father, a former Ranji Trophy player.

Both players shared their experiences of receiving the call for their selections. Saransh was driving to a temple when he learned of his selection, while Nabi was at the airport preparing for a training camp when he received the unexpected news. "I got a call asking where I was. They told me that I didn't have to go there; I had to come to Sri Lanka and that I was selected," Nabi recounted, expressing his disbelief at the sudden turn of events.