ZIM vs IND 2022: India call-up a dream come true for me, says Shahbaz Ahmed

India’s rookie player Shahbaz Ahmed admitted that it was a dream come true moment for him when he received a maiden call-up to the Indian team for the three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe. Ahmed was added to the Indian squad after Washington Sundar was ruled out of the series due to a shoulder injury.

Shahbaz Ahmed impressed one and all while playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore in Tata IPL 2022. Shahbaz scored 219 runs in 16 matches for Royal Challengers Bangalore. He also took four wickets for RCB and played a key role in the team’s run to the playoff stages.

The left-hander also scored 262 runs while playing for Bengal in Ranji Trophy, including a century. Thus, he deserves his place in the Indian squad.

“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,” Shahbaz said in a statement from the Cricket Associaton of Bengal.

Ahmed also gave credit to the CAB coaches and his teammates for their support, which has helped him rise through the ranks.

“The association especially the office bearers have always had faith in me. My coaches and my co-players on the team all have contributed greatly to me reaching this point. I am indebted to them, Shahbaz, who is hoping to make his family proud, added.

On the other hand, CAB president Avishek Dalmiya also showered praise on Shahbaz Ahmed and wished him good luck for the future.

“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,” Avishek said.

Ahmed will look to grab his opportunity with both hands if he gets a chance in playing XI. The left-hander had come up with good performances in the IPL and he will look to carry the same form.

The first ODI between India and Zimbabwe will be played at the Harare Sports Club, Harare on Thursday.