I hope I can win matches for India: Shahbaz Ahmed

Shahbaz Ahmed bagged his maiden call-up for the Indian national squad as he was summoned as the replacement for an injured Washington Sundar for the upcoming Zimbabwe series starting from tomorrow.

The all-rounder put up a phenomenal display for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2022 where he smashed 219 runs from 16 games at a stunning strike rate of 120.99. More than his numbers the reliability that he provided to the Challengers was the x-factor for the Bengal all-rounder, ushering the Bengaluru franchise to safety from almost inextricable situations.

He continued his good form in the knock-out stages of Ranji too where he punched heroically above his weight to help Bengal to the semis where they bowed out to the eventual champions, Madhya Pradesh. He amassed 482 runs from 5 matches at an overwhelming average of 60.25 wherein he also talked with the cherry in his arms claiming 20 wickets that went a mile in underlining Bengal’s heroics in the latest edition of the tournament.

The 27-year-old RCB all-rounder was pretty happy after being summoned to the national side. He opened up on how this call-up is a giant leap towards his goal. Talking about the opportunity, he said, “Everybody who plays cricket wants to wear the India colors. Being called up for the Indian team is a dream come true. Whenever I have played for Bengal, I have given my all. Bengal team believed in me. Given a chance, I hope I can win matches for India with my batting and bowling. I hope the team can bank on me.”

CAB president, Avishek Dalmiya also showered praises on the youngster, saying, “Shahbaz is an exciting cricketer. He is an all-rounder Bengal has looked upon whenever the team has been in a spot. Shahbaz gave his best for Bengal. I wish him all the success on behalf of the association.”