Auqib Nabi Set For County Stint With Surrey As Focus Turns To New Zealand Test Series: Report

Fast bowler Auqib Nabi is set to take on English county side Surrey for three matches in the ongoing County Championship Division One season. The Jammu and Kashmir pacer, who was part of India's squad for the Sri Lanka Tests, will now focus on securing game time before the India tour of New Zealand. Surrey will play their upcoming fixture against Yorkshire on September 2, with Nabi potentially available for selection.

The stint is expected to offer Nabi valuable experience in swing bowling in seamer-friendly English conditions. Given the similarity of conditions, Nabi could utilize this opportunity to gain useful exposure. Although Nabi has yet to make his debut at the international level, the 25-year-old could be part of a strong pace attack for India in the future.

His batting ability, too, could make him a suitable selection, considering coach Gautam Gambhir's preference for all-rounders. Last season, Nabi had a remarkable run in the Ranji Trophy, topping the wicket-taking charts with 60 wickets at an average of 12.56. His contributions were instrumental in Jammu and Kashmir securing their historic maiden championship title.

Additionally, Nabi played a crucial role in India's recent 1-0 Test series victory over Sri Lanka, though he did not feature in either of the two matches.