Auqib Nabi: The Baramulla Express
Hailing from Jammu & Kashmir, right-arm fast-medium bowler Auqib Nabi has built an undeniable case for a national call-up. His 2025-26 domestic season was nothing short of historic. Nabi spearheaded J&K's bowling attack to clinch their first-ever Ranji
Trophy title, finishing as the tournament's leading wicket-taker with a staggering 60 wickets at a phenomenal average of 12.56. This haul included an incredible seven five-wicket hauls, showcasing his consistency and wicket-taking prowess. He is not just a red-ball specialist; Nabi earned a lucrative ₹8.4 crore contract with Delhi Capitals for the 2026 IPL season, a testament to his value across formats. His ability to swing the ball and maintain relentless accuracy makes him a tantalizing prospect for the Sri Lankan pitches. He made history in the 2025 Duleep Trophy by taking four wickets in four balls, a rare feat that underlines his game-changing potential.
Gurnoor Brar: The Towering Pacer from Punjab
Standing at an imposing 6 feet 5 inches, Gurnoor Brar from Punjab offers something different: raw pace and steep bounce. A right-arm fast bowler who can also contribute with the bat lower down the order, Brar has been a consistent performer for Punjab in domestic cricket. He first caught the selectors' eyes with strong performances in the Ranji Trophy, including a crucial half-century against Jammu & Kashmir in 2023 and impressive bowling spells. His all-round capabilities were on full display in a match against Bihar, where his five-wicket haul (5/14) and a handy 34 runs earned him the Man of the Match award. After starting as a net bowler for Mumbai Indians, he made his IPL debut for Punjab Kings in 2023 before being bought by Gujarat Titans in 2025. His steady rise through the domestic ranks, backed by his physical attributes and skill set, makes him a prime candidate to be tested at the international level, especially on tours where extra bounce can trouble batsmen.
Saransh Jain: The Dependable All-Rounder
At 33, Saransh Jain is proof that consistent, high-level domestic performance is the most reliable currency for a Test call-up. The bowling all-rounder from Madhya Pradesh has been a stalwart for his state for nearly a decade. A crafty right-arm off-spinner and a capable left-handed batsman, Jain was a key member of Madhya Pradesh's maiden Ranji Trophy-winning side in 2021-22. His stock skyrocketed during the 2025-26 Duleep Trophy, where he was named Player of the Series for his all-round heroics, which included finishing as the tournament's leading wicket-taker with 16 scalps. Over his first-class career, Jain has amassed over 2,200 runs and taken more than 180 wickets, including 10 five-wicket hauls, highlighting his dual threat. With Indian cricket always on the lookout for a genuine spinning all-rounder, his experience and proven ability to deliver under pressure make him a strong contender to finally earn his cap in conditions that should suit his style perfectly.
