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Auqib Nabi: The Pacer Testing India's Stars in Auckland

A relatively unknown fast bowler has caught attention by troubling Virat Kohli during India's net sessions ahead of the New Zealand leg of their tour. Auqib Nabi is seeking to break into the playing XI in the upcoming matches.

LSN India · 1 November 2026

Auqib Nabi's impressive spell against India's star batsman Virat Kohli during recent nets in Auckland has generated considerable interest within the Indian cricket contingent. During an extended workout session, Nabi managed to trouble Kohli with several testing deliveries, forcing the veteran batsman to edge a number of balls even as he struck some quality shots.

The pacer's performance during the training session underscores the intensity of India's preparations ahead of their matches in New Zealand. For Kohli, the session represented a demanding spell designed to sharpen his timing and technique ahead of crucial fixtures. The contrast between Nabi's threatening spells and Kohli's mixed outcomes highlighted the fast bowler's potential contribution to India's squad.

Nabi currently finds himself in a competitive environment, vying for inclusion in India's playing eleven. Despite his promising showing in the nets, the pacer remains on the periphery of the team's starting lineup for the Auckland engagements. His ability to trouble batsmen of Kohli's calibre has nonetheless impressed team management and coaching staff.

The young bowler's selection prospects will likely depend on India's tactical approach to forthcoming matches and the fitness status of other pace options. Should he secure a spot in the XI, Nabi would add another dimension to India's bowling attack in New Zealand's challenging conditions.