Shahbaz Ahmed: The outsider who pioneered Bengal to the Ranji Trophy final after 13 years

People have always said that it is emotionally exhausting to make critical choices in life. Heading to an unfamiliar territory has its own complexities. It may seem engrossing, but it can be quite alienating, given that no one is chaperoning you. Shahbaz Ahmed, born in Mewat, moved to the Palwal District for his first academy. He plied his trade for the Haryana district in the zonal level competition before the odds ran out. 

In 2015, the all-rounder, taking one of the toughest decisions of his life, decided to shift to Kolkata to embark on a new journey. Playing for Tapan Memorial Club in the first division, Shahbaz was banned for a game upon being labelled the 'outsider' tag. The youngster, having faced a procession of hardships in life, decided to push through the adversaries again. The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) conducted an investigation and gave him a go-ahead signal to take part in the competition. Five years after the incident, the 25-year-old feels he is emotionally attached to the city now. 

"I’ve been playing here for the last five years. I stay here, it’s my home now. I was a bit disturbed but thankfully the matter was quickly resolved. It’s all past now. I’ve got the full support of my team and coaches. I’m thankful to VVS Laxman and Arun Lal for backing me,” Shahbaz was quoted as saying during an interview with ESPNCricinfo. 

There are few people who find ways to overcome problems in the toughest of times. "If we have a goal and a plan, and are willing to take risks and mistakes and work as a team, we can choose to do the hard thing." Echoing the words of renowned astronaut Scott Kelly, Shahbaz gave a timely reminder of his 'tough as nails' temperament in the Ranji Trophy, leading Bengal to the final after 13 years.  

[ESPNCricinfo input]