Photo via The Hindu

Umar hopes to prove a point against Vidarbha

Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Umar Nazir returns to action this week with a chance to silence critics after being rested for the team’s Ranji Trophy opener against Madhya Pradesh. The 32-year-old, who claimed five wickets in the recent Irani Cup, received unexpected mentorship from BCCI president Mithun Manhas, who observed his bowling drills and adjusted his run-up technique during the match.

J&K’s struggles against Madhya Pradesh—where both batting and bowling failed to deliver under pressure—highlight the need for Nazir’s experience, especially with key players like Yudhvir Singh unavailable and Nasir Lone limited to just 16 overs. Captain Paras Dogra admitted the team’s inability to build partnerships left the middle order overburdened, while the bowlers, despite recent success, lacked consistency in the Ranji opener.

With Auqib Nabi joining the India A squad for New Zealand, Nazir’s performance against Vidarbha will be critical in determining whether J&K can regain momentum in the tournament.

Up nextCricket· 24m ago

Pace plus skills ideal for fast bowlers, reckons Sanjeev