Mumbai Indians have started their preparations for IPL 2026 by calling Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi for a trial at their training center in Mumbai. The five-time champions have been very active in the pre-season period, completing several trades early and shaping most of their squad before the auction. Nabi is the latest promising player they are testing as they look to strengthen their team.

The 29-year-old pacer has not yet played in the IPL, but the upcoming season could be his first chance. Nabi has been in excellent form in domestic cricket and has become one of the most talked-about players this year. In the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2025–26, he has taken 29 wickets in nine innings, including three five-wicket hauls. He has been a contributor with the bat, amassing 146 runs across seven innings, including one all-important half-century. His all-round ability once more makes him an option for any side.

Jammu and Kashmir cricket has grown rapidly in recent years, producing players such as Rasikh Salam, Abdul Samad, Yudhvir Singh, and Umran Malik. Brilliant performances from Nabi have been a major contributor to the strong season so far for J&K. The team currently lies second on the points table with 20 points in five matches, having lost only one game. He has contributed both with the bat and ball to emerge as the key performer of the side.

Nabi Matches MI’s Needs as They Finalize Squad Before the Auction

Mumbai Indians still have INR 2.75 crore left in their purse, and Nabi fits perfectly into their strategy of adding quality bowlers without overspending. Trials before the auction have become common in the IPL. For example, Chennai Super Kings invited Ayush Mhatre for trials last season before signing him mid-tournament as an injury replacement for Ruturaj Gaikwad.

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MI also have made several trades in order to build their core for IPL 2026. They brought in Mayank Markande from KKR for INR 30 lakh, Sherfane Rutherford from Gujarat Titans for INR 2.6 crore, and Shardul Thakur from Lucknow Super Giants for INR 2 crore. With these smart moves and possible additions like Auqib Nabi, Mumbai Indians are working to create a strong and well-balanced squad for the upcoming season.