Team India has recently finished their three-match Test series against New Zealand, facing a historic 0-3 whitewash on home soil. After a surprising loss despite being favourites, Rohit Sharma and his team are now facing criticism from various personalities and the media. This was the first time in Indian cricket history that India suffered a clean sweep in a three-match Test series at home. Following this disappointing loss, famous Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Wriddhiman Saha has announced his retirement plans.
For his outstanding jumping-catching skills, Wriddhiman is known worldwide as “Superman Saha.” He is currently playing for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy 2024. Yesterday, he took to social media to announce that this season will be his last. He clarified that he will complete this Ranji season before officially stepping away from the game. Saha last represented India in 2021, marking the end of a long stint with the national team.
After MS Dhoni’s retirement, Saha served as India’s primary Test wicketkeeper for a time. However, in 2021, the Indian team management decided to move in a different direction, choosing KS Bharat as a backup to Rishabh Pant. Currently, Dhruv Jurel is filling that role for Team India in Tests. The main reason the selectors are not backing Saha is his poor batting form, despite his qualities as a wicketkeeper. They are looking for someone who can bat effectively in any condition and play significant innings.
WRIDDHIMAN SAHA IS SET TO RETIRE FROM ALL FORMS OF CRICKET AT THE END OF RANJI SEASON 🇮🇳
– Thank you for the memories, Saha.#wriddhimansaha pic.twitter.com/as8d7Kzv05
— the brief (@thebriefx) November 4, 2024
In his social media post, Saha shared his emotional journey, stating, “After an unforgettable journey in cricket, this season will be my last. It’s an honour to represent Bengal one final time, playing only in the Ranji Trophy before my retirement. Let’s make this season memorable.”
Wriddhiman Saha’s International Career
During his career, Saha represented India in 40 Test matches and 9 One Day Internationals (ODIs). In 56 Test innings, he scored 1,353 runs at an average of 29.41, with 3 centuries and 6 fifties. In ODIs, he scored 41 runs in 5 innings. Saha’s dedication and contributions to Indian cricket, especially in the Test format, have left a lasting legacy as he bids farewell to professional cricket.