Auqib Nabi says skills matter more than pace in New Zealand
The Jammu and Kashmir pacer intends to rely on his domestic cricket methods for the fourth ODI at Mount Maunganui.
Indian pacer Auqib Nabi believes that while pace provides an advantage, trusting his skills is equally vital as he prepares for the fourth ODI against New Zealand. According to the Times of India, the Jammu and Kashmir bowler intends to use the same techniques that led to his success in domestic cricket.
Nabi, who is playing his first series in New Zealand, noted that seam movement will be crucial because batters can manage swing bowling. He suggested that using scrambled seam will be necessary to adapt to the local conditions.
The pacer also emphasised the need for discipline on flat pitches to prevent leaking runs. He mentioned that he, Arshdeep, and Anshul discuss plans regarding drop-in pitches.
Nabi, known as the 'Baramulla Express', earned his national selection after taking 104 wickets across the 2024-25 and 2025-26 Ranji Trophy seasons. During the 2025-26 season, he took 60 wickets in 17 innings at an average of 12.65, helping Jammu and Kashmir win their first Ranji Trophy title and earning Player of the Tournament honours.
The bowler admitted he had anticipated a Test call-up before receiving a white-ball opportunity, but stated this experience will help him in the red-ball format. India currently leads the five-match series 2-0 after the third ODI in Hamilton was abandoned due to rain.
The fourth match is scheduled to take place at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Friday.
