I can't wait to join the Royal Challengers Bangalore: Shahbaz Ahmed

In the 2020 IPL auction, Shahbaz Ahmed was picked up by the Royal Challengers Bangalore for the base price of INR 20 lakh. The all-rounder was a key member of the Bengal squad that finished as runners-up in the 2019/20 Ranji Trophy season.

The 25-year-old's all-round abilities were on full display in the 2019/20 Ranji Trophy season where he scored 509 runs and bagged 35 wickets. 

Speaking to Hindu Sportstar, Shahbaz Ahmed talked about his excitement and anticipation for the IPL. "It's great news that the IPL is finally happening. I can't wait to get started."

All the Indian players and support staff of Royal Challengers Bangalore are asked to assemble in Bengaluru on 14 August, where all of them will go under mandatory quarantine for a week.

"On August 14, we are going to Bengaluru where we will be under quarantine for a week. We will undergo tests for Covid-19 on the 10th, 12th and most likely on the 18th again. Only after we get the requisite medical clearance we will be allowed to leave [for the UAE]," said Shahbaz Ahmed.

When players reach Bengaluru, they will also be tested for COVID-19 multiple times. According to the BCCI's SOP, which states that everyone needs to be screened at least five times.

"Look, it's not safe to travel (around India) given the spike in the number of (Covid-19) cases. That said, we've to get to Bengaluru first, for which I'll probably board a flight from Delhi. Once we are there, I'm sure the (RCB) management will fill us in on the standard operating procedures so that we can keep ourselves and our teammates safe," he said.

Shahbaz also talks about RCB's head coach, Simon Katich with whom he has been in constant touch. 

"Once I get there, they [the RCB coaching staff] will fill me in on what they expect of me, and I will prepare accordingly. Our head coach Simon Katich has been in touch. We've discussed things about my game and how he would like me to perform in different situations," he said.

Shahbaz hails from the Mewat district of Haryana and has been training there for the last 15 days.

"There's a gym close to where I stay, so thankfully I've had no trouble staying in shape during the lockdown. I've focussed on all three departments: batting, bowling and fielding. I've been picked as an all-rounder and should be able to do justice to my role if selected in the XI," he added.

[Hindu Sportstar inputs]