Auqib Nabi says skills matter more than pace in New Zealand
The Jammu and Kashmir pacer plans to rely on seam movement and discipline for the fourth ODI at Mount Maunganui.
Indian pacer Auqib Nabi believes that while pace is an advantage, trusting his technical 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 approach 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 handle swing bowling. He suggested that using scrambled seam would be more effective in these conditions.
The pacer also emphasised the need for discipline on flat pitches to avoid leaking runs. He mentioned that he, Arshdeep, and Anshul discuss plans regarding drop-in pitches.
Nabi has had a mixed start to the five-match series, recording figures of 0/33 in the first ODI and dismissing openers Will Young and Tim Seifert in the second match. India currently leads the series 2-0 after the third ODI in Hamilton was abandoned due to rain.
Known as the 'Baramulla Express', Nabi earned his national selection after taking 104 wickets across the 2024-25 and 2025-26 Ranji Trophy seasons. He was named Player of the Tournament after taking 60 wickets in 17 innings during the 2025-26 season, helping Jammu and Kashmir win their first title.
The fourth match of the series will be played at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on Friday.