Cricket Veteran Saha Set to Retire After Ranji Trophy Season
Wriddhiman Saha, the experienced wicketkeeper-batter, had initially planned to retire before the start of this domestic season. However, a conversation with former India captain Sourav Ganguly convinced him to continue playing for his home state Bengal and end his career on a high note.
Saha, who has been dealing with various injuries and physical ailments, made it clear that he won’t be available for the white-ball leg of the domestic calendar. He aims to focus his efforts on the prestigious Ranji Trophy, where Bengal will be looking to qualify for the final. If they do, Saha intends to play the entire season, or else he’ll retire after the team’s final match at the iconic Eden Gardens.
The 38-year-old, who has played 40 Tests for India, acknowledges that while he could have performed better with the bat, his primary focus has always been on being a world-class wicketkeeper. Saha has received guidance from various legends over the years, including Kiran More, Saba Karim, and Deep Dasgupta, as well as valuable insights from MS Dhoni, Adam Gilchrist, and Ian Healy.
“Saha has also played a mentorship role for the younger generation of wicketkeepers, including Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel. He is open to exploring coaching and mentoring opportunities in the future, with Bengal being his first priority.”
Despite being told by former coach Rahul Dravid that the Indian team was moving on from him, Saha continued to play domestic and IPL cricket for the past three years. As he prepares to bid farewell, the veteran gloveman is hopeful that Bengal can make the Ranji Trophy final, allowing him to end his illustrious career on a high note.
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