Wasim Jaffer backs Shahbaz Ahmed to get more chances in ODIs

image-l91kgt8aShahbaz Ahmed / PC: Twitter

The former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer backed Shahbaz Ahmed and insisted on granting more opportunities to the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) all-rounder in the One Day Internationals. 

Earlier, ahead of the second ODI against South Africa, which India won comprehensively by seven wickets, Jaffer suggested that India should rope in Shahbaz Ahmed in the playing XI as he offers a good bowling option apart from bolstering the batting unit.  

The former Indian cricketer and full-time cricket expert conceded that the Bengal all-rounder can replace either Ruturaj Gaikwad or Ishan Kishan in the Indian playing XI for the 2nd ODI and the management did exactly as Shahbaz replaced Gaikwad in the lineup. 

Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, ahead of the second T20I against South Africa, here's what Wasim Jaffer said about the RCB player: 

“Shahbaz Ahmed should play as he would be helpful in the bowling department and strengthen the batting unit. You cannot go ahead with only five bowling options in 50-over cricket. You can replace him with Ruturaj Gaikwad or Ishan Kishan.” 

The 27-year-old Bengal cricketer impressed one and all with his all-round brilliance for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the 15th edition of the Indian Premier League, scoring 219 runs at a strike rate of 120.99. He also picked four wickets at an economy of 9.60. 

The Haryana-born made his List A debut back in 2018 and has piled up 662 runs in 27 matches at an average of 47.28. With the ball, he has picked 24 wickets at an economy rate of 4.50.  

Earlier this year, Shahbaz was roped into the Indian squad as a replacement for Washington Sundar for the three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe in August. However, he didn't get a match to play there. 

Making his debut in Ranchi against South Africa, the left-arm orthodox bowled his complete quota of 10 overs and picked a wicket while conceding 54 runs. 

However, the left-handed batter didn't get to bat in the second half as Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan's belligerent knocks helped India register a thumping victory.  

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