Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha has introduced his choice to retire from all types of cricket following the present Ranji Trophy season.
Saha confirmed his departure in a heartfelt assertion, saying, “After a cherished journey in cricket, this season can be my final. I’m honoured to symbolize Bengal one ultimate time, enjoying solely within the Ranji Trophy earlier than I retire.”
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Wriddhiman Saha within the IPL
Saha’s cricketing journey has spanned over a decade and a half, throughout which he represented India in 40 Check matches between 2010 and 2021. Often called certainly one of India’s most reliable wicketkeepers, particularly in red-ball cricket, Saha has additionally performed in 9 T20 Internationals and made a mark within the Indian Premier League (IPL) by way of 170 matches with groups like Kolkata Knight Riders, Punjab Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Gujarat Titans.
His presence within the IPL was notable; he was part of the Gujarat Titans’ squad after they clinched their maiden title in 2022. The 40-year-old additionally scored a century for Kings XI Punjab within the IPL ultimate of 2014, which they misplaced to the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Whereas Saha has been a gentle determine in home cricket and the IPL, his focus not too long ago shifted solely to red-ball cricket for Bengal. His homecoming to Bengal this season, following a stint with Tripura, marks his ultimate bow.
Regardless of a quiet begin with zero runs and three catches in his first two video games, Saha stays optimistic about ending on a memorable observe. “Thanks to everybody who has been a part of this unimaginable experience, your assist has meant the world. Let’s make this season one to recollect…” he shared with followers and colleagues.
Saha’s temporary departure from Bengal to Tripura was not with out controversy. In 2022, a senior official within the Cricket Affiliation of Bengal (CAB) questioned his dedication after Saha opted out of the Ranji group stage as a result of private causes.
Saha finally left the Bengal workforce’s WhatsApp group, signaling a rift. Though then-CAB chief Avishek Dalmiya tried to reconcile, Saha’s dissatisfaction continued. Nevertheless, a current dialog with former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, additionally a former BCCI chief, prompted Saha’s return to Bengal—a transparent indication, many felt, that he was set for a ultimate farewell along with his house state.
Saha’s profession trajectory started along with his First-Class debut for Bengal in 2007. Identified for his technical talent and tranquility underneath stress, he grew to become a helpful asset for India in Check cricket, particularly behind the stumps. His exclusion from the nationwide workforce was determined in 2022, when head coach Rahul Dravid reportedly knowledgeable him that the selectors have been contemplating youthful gamers for the function.
Former Gujarat Titans star to overlook IPL 2025?
Whereas Saha hasn’t immediately addressed his future within the IPL, reviews counsel he’s unlikely to take part within the league in 2025. The wicketkeeper-batter has not registered for the upcoming public sale, indicating a quiet withdrawal from the event that introduced him to the forefront of limited-overs cricket.
With widespread respect from his friends, Wriddhiman Saha’s retirement is definite to deliver a couple of ultimate season that guarantees to be an emotional one as Bengal supporters rally to honour a distinguished profession.
