'These conditions might be useful for him' - Ajinkya Rahane expects Auqib Nabi to excel in NZ vs IND ODIs

November 2, 2026

Prasidh Krishna has been ruled out of the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand due to a left hamstring injury, allowing Auqib Nabi to join the squad earlier than originally planned. Nabi previously made his international debut during a home ODI series against India, where he went wicketless after conceding 84 runs in 8.5 overs.

Despite that tough start, Ajinkya Rahane has expressed confidence that the seamer will thrive in New Zealand. Rahane noted that local pitching conditions offer favorable swing and seam movement that should match Nabi's disciplined approach.

This assessment followed a six-wicket performance by Nabi across two innings for India A in a four-match fixture against New Zealand A at Lincoln. Rahane also highlighted the broader fast-bowling contingent available to the side, which includes Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, and Anshul Kamboj.