Veteran batsman and wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha has announced his decision to retire from all forms of cricket after the current Ranji Trophy season.
Saha confirmed his departure in a heartfelt statement, saying: “After a treasured journey in cricket, this season will be his last. It is an honor for me to represent Bengal for the last time and play only in the Ranji Trophy before retiring.”
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Wriddhiman Saha in the IPL
Saha’s journey in cricket has spanned over a decade and a half, during which he represented India in 40 Test matches between 2010 and 2021. Known as one of India’s most reliable wicketkeepers, especially in cricket. red ball, Saha has also played in nine T20 internationals. and made a mark in the Indian Premier League (IPL) through 170 matches for teams like Kolkata Knight Riders, Punjab Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans.
His presence in the IPL was notable; He was part of the Gujarat Titans team when they clinched their maiden title in 2022. The 40-year-old also scored a century for Kings XI Punjab in the 2014 IPL final, which they lost to Kolkata Knight Riders.
While Saha has been a steady figure in domestic cricket and the IPL, recently his focus has been solely on red-ball cricket for Bengal. His return to Bengal this season, after a stint in Tripura, marks his final farewell.
Despite a quiet start with zero runs and three receptions in his first two games, Saha remains optimistic about finishing on a memorable note. “Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey, your support has meant a lot. Let’s make this season one to remember…” he shared with his fans and colleagues.
Saha’s brief departure from Bengal to Tripura was not without controversy. In 2022, a senior Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) official questioned his commitment after Saha opted out of the Ranji group stage due to personal reasons.
Saha eventually left the Bengal team’s WhatsApp group, indicating a rift. Although then CAB chief Avishek Dalmiya attempted reconciliation, Saha’s discontent persisted. However, a recent conversation with former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, also a former BCCI chief, prompted Saha’s return to Bengal, a clear indication, many say, that he was ready for a final farewell to his home state.
Saha’s career journey began with his First Class debut for Bengal in 2007. Known for his technical ability and calmness under pressure, he became a valuable asset for India in Test cricket, especially behind the stumps. His exclusion from the national team was decided in 2022, when head coach Rahul Dravid reportedly informed him that the selectors were considering younger players for the position.
Will the former Gujarat Titans star miss IPL 2025?
While Saha has not directly addressed his future in the IPL, reports suggest that he is unlikely to participate in the league in 2025. The wicketkeeper-batsman has not registered for the upcoming auction, indicating a quiet withdrawal from the tournament that took him to the IPL. vanguard of limited overs cricket.
With widespread respect from his peers, Wriddhiman Saha’s retirement is sure to bring about a final season that promises to be an emotional one as Bengal fans come together to honor a distinguished career.
