Gurnoor Brar joins North Zone for the Duleep Trophy semifinal as selectors seek more red-ball exposure for the India pacer ahead of New Zealand Tests.
Gurnoor Brar has been added to the North Zone squad for the upcoming Duleep Trophy semifinal against South Zone, as selectors look to provide the young India fast bowler with more first-class cricket exposure ahead of the Test series against New Zealand.
The semifinal is scheduled to begin on Sunday at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Brar joins the North Zone side after India completed their Test series against Sri Lanka with a 1-0 victory.
Selectors Eye More Red-Ball Cricket for Brar
The inclusion of Gurnoor Brar is part of the selectors’ effort to ensure the pacer gets valuable red-ball experience before India’s two-Test series against New Zealand in November.
The 24-year-old fast bowler is yet to make his Test debut but has been included in India’s last two Test squads. He has also remained part of the BCCI’s targeted player pool for more than a year.
With conditions and workload management in mind, the Duleep Trophy semifinal provides Brar with an opportunity to spend more time bowling with the red ball and strengthen his case for a future Test debut.
Impressive First-Class Numbers
Gurnoor Brar has built a strong record in domestic first-class cricket. He has picked up 62 wickets in 19 first-class matches at an average of 25.24.
His recent performance for India A also caught the attention of the selectors. During India A’s shadow tour of Sri Lanka in July, Brar claimed 10 wickets for 145 runs in the second unofficial Test.
These performances have helped keep the Punjab pacer in the wider discussion for India’s Test plans.
Brar Has Also Made His ODI Debut
Brar’s development has not been limited to red-ball cricket. He made his ODI debut against Afghanistan in June and subsequently featured in all three matches during India’s recent tour of England.
Across six ODI appearances, he finished with 11 wickets at an average of 32.81, adding valuable international experience to his growing career.
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Auqib Nabi’s County Cricket Possibility
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi could take a different route to gain experience before India’s upcoming assignments.
According to the report, Nabi is exploring the possibility of a short stint in English county cricket, subject to visa clearance. The selectors reportedly want him to experience seamer-friendly English conditions rather than feature in the Duleep Trophy at this stage.
Nabi enjoyed a remarkable 2025-26 Ranji Trophy campaign, taking 60 wickets at an average of 12.56. His ability to swing the new ball has also kept him in contention for India’s New Zealand tour.
India A and Irani Cup Could Be Next for Nabi
If the county move does not materialise, Nabi is expected to feature for India A in their opening match against Australia in Puducherry from September 22.
He could then turn out for Jammu and Kashmir in the Irani Cup against Rest of India in Srinagar, scheduled from October 1 to 5.
However, the scheduling of the second India A match against Australia alongside the Irani Cup could create a selection challenge. A change to the existing schedule is reportedly considered unlikely.
Red-Ball Exposure Key Ahead of New Zealand Tests
For Gurnoor Brar, the Duleep Trophy semifinal represents an important chance to strengthen his red-ball credentials. With India preparing for the New Zealand Tests in November, regular first-class cricket could prove crucial for the young pacer as he pushes for a place in the Test setup.
The selectors’ decision to increase Brar’s red-ball exposure underlines the importance of match practice and sustained performances as India builds its pace-bowling options for the upcoming Test assignments.
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