Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Bengal all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed said on Tuesday (August 16) that the maiden India call-up for the ODI series against Zimbabwe is a dream come true for him.
Shahbaz has been included in the 16-man India squad for the three-match ODI series, slated to get underway on Thursday (August 18).
Washington Sundar is replaced by Shahbaz, according to the BCCI. Due to a shoulder ailment, Sundar was forced to withdraw from the series.
The 27-year-old was called up following a strong showing in IPL 2022, particularly with the bat, as he worked in tandem with Dinesh Karthik to save RCB on numerous occasions. He finished the season with 219 runs and 4 wickets. He has also had a consistent run in domestic tournaments for Bengal.
"Everybody who plays cricket wants to wear the India colours. 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," he said on his selection, as quoted by News Nine.
He also expressed his gratitude for the help he received from the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) and his coaches in Bengal throughout his journey.
"The association especially the office bearers have always had faith in me. My coaches and my co-players in the team all have contributed greatly for me to reach this point. I am indebted to them," he stated.
Reacting to the news, CAB President Avishek Dalmiya said: "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."
The three ODIs will be played at the Harare Sports Club on August 18, 20, and 22 respectively.
(NEWS NINE INPUTS)
