I want to be 'Mr. Bankable' for Team India: Shahbaz Ahmed

Bengal's crafty all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed today said if he got a chance to play for India he wanted to be the guy the team could bank on. 

On Tuesday, the BCCI formally announced Shahbaz Ahmed as the replacement for Washington Sundar for the Indian tour of Zimbabwe. 

Also Read: Shahbaz Ahmed announced as Washington Sundar's replacement

CAB President Avishek Dalmiya reacting to the news 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."

Talking about his selection, Shahbaz said: 

"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."

The Bengal allrounder also expressed his gratitude to the association for the support: 

"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."

Ahmed said playing the IPL was a great experience and it matured him as a cricketer as he played with and against the best in the business. 

Back home his parents are very happy and he hopes to make them proud.

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