Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha has announced his decision to retire from all forms of cricket following the current Ranji Trophy season.
Saha confirmed his departure in a heartfelt statement, saying, “After a cherished journey in cricket, this season will be my last. I am honoured to represent Bengal one final time, playing only in the Ranji Trophy before I retire.”
Saha’s cricketing journey 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 dependable wicketkeepers, especially in red-ball cricket, Saha has also played in nine T20 Internationals and made a mark in the Indian Premier League (IPL) through 170 matches with teams like Kolkata Knight Riders, Punjab Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Gujarat Titans.
His presence in the IPL was notable; he was a part of the Gujarat Titans’ squad when they clinched their maiden title in 2022. The 40-year-old also scored a century for Kings XI Punjab in the IPL final of 2014, which they lost to the Kolkata Knight Riders.
While Saha has been a steady figure in domestic cricket and the IPL, his focus recently shifted solely to red-ball cricket for Bengal. His homecoming to Bengal this season, following a stint with Tripura, marks his final bow.
Despite a quiet start with zero runs and three catches 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 ride, your support has meant the world. Let’s make this season one to remember…” he shared with fans and colleagues.
Saha’s brief departure from Bengal to Tripura was not without controversy. In 2022, a senior official in the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) 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, signaling a rift. Although then-CAB chief Avishek Dalmiya attempted to reconcile, Saha’s dissatisfaction 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 felt, that he was set for a final farewell with his home state.
Saha’s career trajectory began with his First-Class debut for Bengal in 2007. Known for his technical skill 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 role.
While Saha hasn’t directly addressed his future in the IPL, reports suggest he is unlikely to participate in the league in 2025. The wicketkeeper-batter has not registered for the upcoming auction, indicating a quiet withdrawal from the tournament that brought him to the forefront of limited-overs cricket.
With widespread respect from his peers, Wriddhiman Saha’s retirement is certain to bring about a final season that promises to be an emotional one as Bengal supporters rally to honour a distinguished career.
