Srinagar: Fast bowler Auqib Nabi Dar of Jammu and Kashmir has concluded the recent One Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand with a commendable five wickets from four matches, marking a notable performance on the international stage.
Information was available with The Chenab Times detailing Nabi’s consistent contributions to India’s bowling efforts across various conditions. The bowler demonstrated an ability to challenge seasoned international batsmen during the five-match contest.
Nabi’s campaign began on November 4 in the opening ODI at Auckland, where he bowled six overs for 33 runs without taking a wicket. This initial outing provided him with crucial experience in the demands of international cricket in an unfamiliar environment.
He made a significant impact in the second ODI at Wellington on November 7. In seven overs, Nabi took two vital wickets for 31 runs, dismissing New Zealand’s Will Young and Tim Seifert. This performance marked his first wickets against the opposition.
Following the washout of the third ODI in Hamilton, Nabi returned for the fourth match at Mount Maunganui on November 13. He continued to display his wicket-taking prowess, securing two wickets for 59 runs in eight overs. His dismissals included Dean Foxcroft and Kristian Clarke.
In his final appearance during the series-deciding fifth ODI at Bay Oval on Sunday, Nabi delivered another disciplined spell. He bowled his full quota of 10 overs, conceding 37 runs at an economy rate of 3.70 and claimed the wicket of Michael Bracewell. He also bowled a maiden over during this outing.
Across the series, Auqib Nabi concluded with a total of five wickets from 31 overs, having given away 160 runs. His bowling average stood at 32.00 with an economy rate of 5.16. His best figures for an innings were 2/31, and his strike rate of 37.20 indicated his effectiveness in securing breakthroughs.
The series provided a valuable learning curve for the Jammu and Kashmir pacer, allowing him to test his skills against international competition and adapt to overseas pitches and playing conditions. His consistent performances, particularly the two-wicket hauls in the second and fourth ODIs, alongside an economical display in the final match, highlighted the qualities that have earned him a place in the national setup.
India ultimately secured the five-match series with a 3-1 victory after winning the final ODI by 22 runs. While defending a total of 209, India’s bowlers restricted New Zealand to 187 all out. Arshdeep Singh led the bowling attack with three wickets, supported by Mohammed Siraj and Axar Patel, who took two wickets each, with Nabi also contributing a crucial dismissal.
The Chenab Times News Desk
