Will Auqib Nabi Play in J&K vs Rest of India Irani Cup 2026?

Jammu & Kashmir will face the Rest of India in the Irani Cup 2026 from October 1 to 5 at the Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar, one of the most beautiful cricket stadiums in the world. The J&K vs Rest of India Irani Cup 2026 match will be the first ever to be played at this stadium after a long span of 40 years. However, one of the biggest questions surrounding the Ranji Trophy champions is the availability of star all-rounder Auqib Nabi.

Nabi played a major role in J&K’s historic Ranji Trophy title-winning campaign in the 2025-26 season, finishing with 60 wickets in 10 matches. His performances, particularly during the knockout stages, earned him recognition at the national level. In this article, we will update the availability of Auqib Nabi in Irani Cup 2026.

Is Auqib Nabi Playing J&K vs Rest of India Irani Cup?

Auqib Nabi is set to miss the Irani Cup because of his India commitments. The BCCI included him in the 15-member India ODI squad for the West Indies series, alongside players such as Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj. The series began on September 27, with the second ODI scheduled for September 30 and the third on October 3. This creates a direct scheduling clash with the Irani Cup, which begins on October 1.

The clash between the Irani Cup and the West Indies ODI series has made Nabi’s participation for J&K difficult. However, Nabi was expected to play in the Irani Cup for J&K after being left out of the India A squad for the Australia A multi-day series, but his inclusion in India's ODI squad has changed the situation

What Does Auqib Nabi's Absence Mean for J&K?

Nabi’s absence would be significant for J&K, considering his contribution to their maiden Ranji Trophy title. He was one of their leading performers with the ball and also provided useful depth with the bat. J&K will now have to rely on other members of their bowling attack against a strong Rest of India side.

The Rest of India squad, announced by the BCCI, will be led by Rishabh Pant, with Sarfaraz Khan named vice-captain. The squad also includes players such as Akash Deep, Mukesh Kumar, Mukesh Choudhary, Manav Suthar and Anukul Roy.